Kenya Milk Production Record 2025 Hits 5.5 Million Tons as Dairy Sector Growth Continues
Kenya’s dairy sector reached a new production high in 2025. The country produced 5.5 million tons of fresh milk during the year, according to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) in its latest economic survey released on April 30.
The figure marks a 3.5 percent increase from 2024. It is the third consecutive year of growth, setting a new record for the sector. The achievement underscores steady growth in one of the country’s key agricultural industries.
While the KNBS did not detail the drivers behind the increase, the government has been rolling out a 10-year dairy development strategy since 2023 through the Kenya Dairy Board. The plan focuses on improving farmers’ access to animal feed and veterinary services, with the goal of doubling daily milk yields per cow to about 14 litres.
Processed milk volumes also rose sharply in 2025. According to the KNBS, processed milk increased by 13.4 percent to reach 701,500 tons. This means more milk is being handled by formal processors rather than sold informally. Formal processing ensures better quality control and food safety. Farmers benefit from more reliable markets. Consumers benefit from safer, higher quality products.
Authorities are also working to strengthen the competitiveness of local production. In October 2025, the government suspended imports of powdered milk to protect domestic producers from unfair competition. Imported powdered milk has often undercut local prices, making it difficult for Kenyan farmers to compete. The suspension has helped local processors increase their market share and encouraged investment in local processing capacity.
In a 2024 report on Kenya’s dairy market, the US Department of Agriculture said the country had 32 industrial dairies and 186 small-scale processors, with a combined processing capacity of about 3,750 tons per day. Since that report, more processors have entered the market and existing processors have expanded their capacity. This growth in processing is essential for absorbing the increasing milk production.
The record is good news for the 1.8 million smallholder dairy farmers across Kenya. These farmers produce most of the country’s milk. Higher production means higher incomes for many rural families. However, farmers still face challenges. Feed costs remain high. Access to veterinary services is uneven. Climate change threatens pasture and water supplies. The government’s dairy strategy aims to address these challenges.
Consumers also benefit from the record production. More milk in the market helps keep prices stable. Processed milk is available in shops across the country. Families can access nutritious dairy products at reasonable prices.
The dairy sector is expected to continue growing in 2026. The government is committed to implementing its dairy strategy. Farmers are adopting better practices. Processors are investing in new capacity. The target is to double daily milk yields per cow to about 14 litres. Achieving that target would transform the sector.
The government’s ban on powdered milk imports remains in place. Local processors are benefiting. Farmers are benefiting. Consumers are benefiting. The policy appears to be working. The dairy sector is one of Kenya’s most important agricultural industries. It employs millions of people and contributes significantly to the economy.
The record set in 2025 may not stand for long. The sector is moving forward. The cows are producing more milk. The processors are handling more volume. The consumers are drinking more dairy. Kenya’s dairy story is one of steady, sustainable success. The future looks bright for farmers, processors, and consumers alike.
Read original post by Stéphanas Assocle Here.
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