Dairy Farming in Kenya: A Business Perspective from Caroline Tanui

Caroline Tanui, a dairy farmer from Sachangwan village in Bomet County, Kenya, represents the shift of dairy farming into a business venture. Initially starting with a single cow, Caroline now maintains a herd of four cows comprising different breeds: a Friesian, an Ayrshire, and two local breeds. Each breed is chosen for specific purposes on her farm.

The Friesian cow is primarily for commercial purposes, producing between 15 and 20 litres of milk daily, which earns Caroline approximately 800 Kenyan Shillings (USD 6) per day. Her Ayrshire cow, although yielding less milk at five litres per day, is valued for its high butter content and quality, making it suitable for family consumption. The local breeds, including a Sahiwal from Narok, are noted for milk that is rich in nutrients despite lower yields.

Caroline practices zero grazing, a method where livestock is kept indoors, and their feed and water are brought to them. This approach necessitates significant attention to feeding and management. Her feeding regimen includes silage, dairy meal supplements, salt, and wilted Napier grass, with a focus on maintaining hygiene by ensuring clean water and preventing contamination by other animals.

Income from milk has proven to be more lucrative than selling maize. Caroline has learned that nutritionally rich feed results in higher milk production, a realization that has influenced her silage-making practices. She participates in farmer field days organized by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), where she learns about high-protein fodder crops and better silage preservation techniques.

Beyond dairy production, Caroline integrates her farming activities by using cow waste in a biogas system for cooking and then as manure for crops. Her children contribute to the farm's operations, highlighting the role of family support in dairy farming.

Despite challenges such as droughts, Caroline's farm continues to thrive due to her silage reserves and ongoing improvements. Her engagement with artificial insemination services and farmer training sessions demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and improvement in her dairy practices.