Gachagua Spots a Problem With Ruto’s New Buffalo Milk Plan & Speaks Out

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticised President William Ruto’s proposal to explore importing buffaloes from India as one possible solution to Kenya’s ongoing milk shortage.

Speaking on Saturday, October 10, Gachagua questioned the plan, arguing that the government should prioritise strengthening local dairy farming instead of looking for alternative animals to increase milk supplies.

The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader also challenged Ruto’s claims about improvements in milk production since he took office, suggesting that the reported shortage raised questions about the government’s approach to the dairy sector.

“I heard Ruto yesterday saying that there is no milk and that he will consult with his government on how to bring buffaloes from India so that people can milk them. Is he taking us for fools?” Gachagua posed.

He argued that increasing the number of dairy cows would be a more direct way of supporting local production and questioned whether importing buffaloes was a practical solution for Kenyan farmers.

“Instead of increasing the number of cows, you want to bring buffaloes? Can buffaloes really produce milk?” he asked.

Gachagua further raised concerns about the potential risks farmers could face when handling the animals, questioning whether they could injure people attempting to milk them.

His remarks followed Ruto’s announcement on Friday that the government was exploring whether buffaloes and camels could help address the milk shortage.

The President attributed the shortage to drought and other challenges affecting milk supply. He said he had instructed Livestock Development Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke to investigate suitable breeds of buffaloes and camels that could potentially boost production.

Ruto cited India as an example of a country where buffalo milk is consumed and suggested beginning with small samples to determine whether the option would be viable in Kenya.

The proposal appears to be at an exploratory stage, with the government yet to establish whether importing the animals would be practical and beneficial for local dairy farmers.

The exchange has brought fresh attention to the milk shortage and the debate over how best to increase supply. While Ruto is exploring alternative sources, Gachagua insists that expanding conventional dairy farming should remain a priority.

Source: https://nairobileo.co.ke/news/article/30754/gachagua-goes-after-ruto-over-proposal-to-import-buffaloes-to-ease-milk-shortage

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