Supporting the development of the Kenyan dairy industry is an important mandate of the Board. Improved milk production and productivity, value addition, compliance and market access are integral to a sustainable dairy value chain. The department undertakes various activities to support the growth of the industry through; capacity building of stakeholders, standards development, trade facilitation and research.
The board undertakes various activities to build the capacity of stakeholders to increase milk production, value addition and compliance through:
- Training
- Technology transfer
- Stakeholder organization
- Dissemination of dairy data and information.
The board participates in harmonization of dairy standards at the international (CODEX Committee), regional and local levels to promote trade and safeguard consumers’ health.
Standards for all the mainstream milk and milk products have been developed. Nine dairy standards have been harmonized at the EAC level.
The Board engages in various activities to promote domestic, regional and international markets for Kenyan milk and milk products. The activities include:
- Issuance of export and import permits for dairy produce
- Strengthening ties with regional dairy regulatory authorities
- Participating in regional and international trade negotiations
The Board undertakes:
Relevant dairy research, surveys and data collection to inform and facilitate decision making by Government, primary producers, dairy business operators and dairy industry stakeholders
Modernizing the dairy industry by promoting adoption of appropriate innovations, practices and technologies for increased productivity.
Supporting inclusion and participation of women and youth in dairy production and other upstream activities for gender and youth mainstreaming and empowerment
Advocating for adoption of green energy technologies in the dairy industry to conserve the environment and improve productivity.