Nyamira County has officially launched a comprehensive dairy breed improvement programme aimed at enhancing milk production and improving the livelihoods of local farmers. The event, held at the County Agricultural Training Centre in Nyamira town, was attended by Governor Amos Nyaribo, senior county officials, representatives from the Kenya Dairy Board, and local farmers’ cooperatives. The initiative, which will distribute high-quality dairy breeds and provide training in modern livestock management, seeks to increase milk yields and ensure food security across the region.
The programme was introduced in response to long-standing challenges in the county’s dairy sector, where smallholder farmers have struggled with low-yield breeds, inadequate training, and limited access to veterinary services. Under the initiative, farmers will receive hybrid breeds designed to thrive in Nyamira’s climate, alongside technical support and veterinary services. Governor Nyaribo emphasized that the initiative aligns with the county’s broader agricultural development strategy, highlighting that boosting dairy productivity would create sustainable income opportunities and empower women, who make up the majority of dairy farmers in the region.
Reactions to the programme have been largely positive, with local farmers expressing optimism about the potential for higher milk output and increased household incomes. Agricultural experts believe that successful implementation could serve as a model for other counties facing similar challenges in livestock production. Looking ahead, the county government plans to monitor progress closely, expand the programme to include more farmers, and integrate value-addition facilities such as milk cooling plants to further strengthen the dairy value chain. The initiative is expected to contribute significantly to Nyamira’s economic growth, job creation, and long-term food security.