Tana River Dairy Farmers Get Major Boost as Government Launches Solar-Powered Milk Coolers

Hundreds of dairy farmers in Tana River County are set to benefit from improved milk preservation and expanded market access following the commissioning of two solar-powered milk coolers by the National Government.

The Principal Secretary for the State Department for Cabinet Affairs, Idris Dokota, on Monday handed over the two bulk milk coolers, each with a capacity of 1,000 litres, to Hola Milk Vendors and Delta Dairy Cooperatives in Hola Town.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Dr Dokota said the solar-powered cooling systems are aimed at supporting small-scale dairy farmers by addressing post-harvest losses and unreliable electricity supply in off-grid areas.

He noted that the project seeks to strengthen the livestock subsector through modern infrastructure that will help pastoralist communities transition from subsistence dairy farming to commercial production.

“The initiative is expected to contribute to an increase in household incomes among targeted pastoralist communities, directly benefiting 600 farmers through improved preservation, value addition and expanded markets,” said Dokota.

According to the PS, the two facilities will enable farmers to collectively store up to 2,000 litres of milk daily, valued at approximately Sh98,000.

He added that annually, the coolers are expected to save nearly 730,000 litres of milk worth about Sh35.8 million while significantly reducing energy costs through renewable solar technology.

Dokota said the project is being implemented under the Livestock Value Chain Support Project, which aims to improve infrastructure and connect farmers to formal markets.

He further urged more local farmers to join dairy cooperatives in order to maximise the benefits of the new facilities and improve milk handling standards.

The PS also emphasized that better milk preservation will enhance food safety by reducing bacterial contamination, ensuring consumers receive higher-quality dairy products.

“Bulk milk coolers are not merely storage facilities but are economic empowerment hubs capable of transforming milk into wealth, jobs, nutrition and opportunities for rural communities,” he said.

The initiative is expected to improve food security and create sustainable income opportunities for dairy farmers across Tana River County.