CS Kinyanjui links milk shortage to prolonged dry spell as Kenya braces for rains

Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade and Industry Lee Kinyanjui has linked Kenya’s ongoing milk shortage to the prolonged dry spell, warning that the situation could persist as the country experiences unusually hot weather in September 2026.

Writing on X on Saturday, September 5, 2026, Kinyanjui said several months of dry conditions have affected agricultural production, putting pressure on farmers and contributing to reduced milk supplies at a time when the country is preparing for anticipated rains.

“This comes as we are already experiencing a particularly hot September, following several dry months that have affected agricultural production and contributed to a shortage of milk,” Kinyanjui said.

The remarks come amid a milk supply squeeze that has seen some supermarkets report reduced stocks, while consumers have faced price increases of between Ksh3 and Ksh5 for a 500-millilitre packet.

Milk deliveries to processors decline

The Kenya Dairy Board has attributed the shortage to seasonal production challenges, with formal milk deliveries to processors falling by 3.7 per cent from 84.4 million litres in June to 81.3 million litres in July 2026.

The board has also warned of a further decline in August 2026, citing dry and cold weather in key milk-producing areas, which has affected pasture and fodder availability for dairy farmers.

The decline in production has heightened concerns over milk availability and prices, placing additional pressure on consumers and businesses dependent on dairy supplies.

Kinyanjui warns businesses ahead of rains

Kinyanjui also cautioned businesses to prepare for possible disruptions as the country heads into a period of increased rainfall.

He warned that flooding, landslides, damaged transport networks and logistical challenges could interfere with supply chains and hamper the smooth running of businesses.

“Businesses should therefore ensure adequate stocks of critical raw materials and develop contingency plans to sustain operations,” he stated.

Firms operating in areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides have been urged to take additional precautions to protect employees, assets and business operations.

Foreign traders and retail businesses

Kinyanjui also addressed concerns surrounding foreign nationals entering Kenya as investors or traders before engaging in retail businesses, amid wider discussions on protecting opportunities for local enterprises.

He stressed the need for businesses and investors to operate within the country’s regulatory framework, as the government continues to address concerns surrounding participation in different sectors of the economy.

The CS said preparedness for the anticipated rains should extend beyond government agencies to communities, households and businesses.

“The government is putting in place measures to mitigate the milk shortage and the anticipated effects of the rains. However, preparedness must also extend to communities, households and businesses,” Kinyanjui said.

He urged Kenyans to take early precautions to minimise damage, protect livelihoods and safeguard lives as the country prepares for possible weather-related disruptions.

“Everyone has a role to play in taking early precautions to minimise damage, protect livelihoods and safeguard lives,” he added.