Policymakers in Kenya's dairy industry plan to leverage on business opportunities presented by potential markets in Europe, the Middle East and the African Continental Free Trade Area to grow earnings in the dairy sector to KES9 billion this year.

In an update on Monday, Kenya Dairy Board Chairman Genesio Mugo said the country is streamlining the industry to enable a wider market reach including scouting for lucrative markets in the European Union market.

"We are planning to get certification at the international level so that our milk can access the European Union," Mugo said.

Regionally, local players in the industry will be exploring export opportunities from economies within the East African Community, including in the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and Somalia.

Mugo said a key cog of the new push will be streamlining the industry in order to manufacture and export value added products such as butter, cheese, ghee and yogurt, thereby earning producers’ better incomes.

Statistics show that Kenya realised KES7.3 billion in dairy export earnings in 2023.

Meanwhile, a task force within the Kenya Dairy Board is reviewing of the Dairy Industry Bill aiming at revolutionizing milk quality and safety. 

Additionally, the law review seeks to ensure consumer health through world-class food safety measures, while unlocking Kenya’s export potential in regional and global markets. 

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