KCC Milk Company Will Not Be Privatized, Says CS Oparanya
In a significant announcement during his visit to Eldoret, Cooperative and Small Trade Minister Wycliffe Abenta Oparanya reassured dairy farmers that the KCC Milk Company will not be privatized, countering widespread speculation among stakeholders in the dairy sector.
Speaking while touring various organizations in the region, Oparanya emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting local dairy farmers and ensuring their economic stability. “The KCC Milk Company is a vital asset for our dairy farmers, and we have no intention of privatizing it. We recognize the crucial role it plays in the livelihoods of many families in this region,” he stated.
Oparanya highlighted the government’s allocation of Ksh 1 billion to KCC, which aims to facilitate timely payments to dairy farmers at a rate of Ksh 50 per liter. “We want to ensure that farmers receive fair compensation for their hard work. This funding will directly support farmers and strengthen the entire dairy value chain,” he explained.
During the visit, the minister addressed the challenges faced by farmers, including delays in payments and fluctuating market prices. He assured farmers that the government is taking measures to stabilize the dairy sector, which has faced various economic pressures. “We understand the difficulties you have been experiencing, and we are committed to addressing these issues,” he said.
Additionally, Oparanya announced plans to enhance the financial support available to farmers through a loan fund specifically designed for the dairy sector. He noted that having sufficient funds in the farmers’ loan fund is essential for promoting growth and sustainability within the industry. “We will ensure that there are adequate resources available to support our farmers. This will help them invest in their businesses and improve productivity,” he added.
To further ensure that the promised payments reach the farmers, Oparanya has instructed the management of KCC to prioritize the disbursement of funds, giving them a timeline of ninety days to complete the payment process. “I urge the management of KCC to act swiftly and ensure that our dairy farmers are paid on time. They rely on these payments for their livelihoods, and it is our duty to uphold our promises to them,” he emphasized.
The minister’s visit was met with optimism among local dairy farmers, many of whom have faced financial struggles in recent months. By addressing their concerns and offering concrete solutions, Oparanya’s announcement has sparked renewed hope for the future of the dairy industry in Uasin Gishu County.
As the government continues to work on policies that support local agriculture, the commitment to KCC and its dairy farmers signals a significant step towards enhancing the sustainability and profitability of Kenya’s dairy sector.
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