The Kenya Dairy Board (KDB) has warned of temporary milk supply constraints in parts of the country after formal milk deliveries to processors declined amid dry and cold weather conditions in key dairy-producing areas.
In a media statement issued on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, KDB said milk deliveries fell by 3.7 per cent, from 84.4 million litres in June 2026 to 81.3 million litres in July.
The Board said it was still compiling formal milk intake figures for August, although preliminary indications point to a further decline in deliveries.
“Formal milk deliveries to processors declined by 3.7 per cent from 84.4 million litres in June 2026 to 81.3 million litres in July 2026. The Board is currently compiling formal milk intake data for August 2026. Preliminary indications suggest a further decline in milk deliveries, reflecting the prevailing seasonal production conditions.”
The reduced supply has already been felt in some parts of the country, with KDB reporting low stock levels, reduced availability of some milk brands and pack sizes, as well as delays in restocking outlets.
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Pasteurised milk most affected
According to the Board, pasteurised milk has been more affected by the supply constraints, while extended shelf-life (ESL) and ultra-high temperature (UHT) milk remain comparatively more available.
Despite the supply challenges, KDB said milk remains available in the market and urged consumers not to panic.
“Consumers and stakeholders are therefore reassured that the current situation is temporary,” the Board said.
Retail prices have also remained generally stable, although the Board noted some upward price movements in areas experiencing tighter supplies.
Dry weather blamed for declining production
KDB attributed the current situation largely to seasonal factors, particularly the prevailing dry and cold conditions in major milk-producing regions.
The conditions have affected pasture and fodder availability, consequently putting pressure on milk production.
However, the Board expects the situation to improve with the October-November-December (OND) 2026 rainfall season, which is projected to improve pasture and fodder availability.
The expected recovery in animal feed is likely to support increased milk production and stabilise supplies in the coming months.
Government moves to boost milk production
The government is also implementing measures aimed at increasing milk production and strengthening the resilience of the dairy value chain.
KDB said the interventions include the procurement and distribution of milk coolers to improve milk aggregation and preservation.
The government is also supporting dairy herd improvement through subsidised sexed semen, an intervention expected to contribute to improved dairy productivity over time.
The Board said it will continue monitoring milk production, formal deliveries to processors, market availability and retail prices while working with industry stakeholders to maintain continuity of supply.
The latest development comes at a time when milk is a key household commodity in Kenya, with changes in production and availability likely to affect farmers, processors, retailers and consumers.
KDB Managing Director Dr William Maritim said the Board, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, would continue supporting measures to ensure adequate and stable milk supplies across the country.
