Ruto’s Reason for Halting Ugandan Milk Powder
On Sunday, President William Ruto explained the reasons behind his administration’s decision to stop the import of milk powder from neighboring countries to Kenya.
During a conversation on Inooro TV, the President revealed that certain well-connected individuals have been taking advantage of the trade partnerships among East African Community (EAC) nations. They are using these relationships to bring in milk from foreign countries and illicitly bring it into Kenya.
“There is milk from our neighboring country and oftentimes it’s not from their farms. This is milk from foreign countries, taken to factories, and processed. A milk company in Kenya is the one doing that,” Ruto stated.
He stressed that such actions must not be permitted in Kenya, as they have a detrimental effect on the local farmers.
“We closed down the operation because there is no way a company operating in Kenya can get milk from foreign countries, process it then sell it and the local farmer is not paid his dues. We cannot allow that,” Ruto added.
Nevertheless, the leader of the nation provided insight into the current discussions taking place with EAC nations, aimed at guaranteeing equitable trade within the area.
“We sat with our neighbors and told them that we respect the EAC regulations but we must have an understanding that the milk should be from your farms,” he disclosed.
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In March, the Kenya Dairy Board halted the import of milk powder within the country as a measure to protect local farmers from unfair trading practices that put them at a disadvantage.
KDB contended that farmers were anticipating the arrival of the extended rainy season, which would lead to a rise in milk output. Nevertheless, the board disclosed that the halt in operations was of a temporary nature.
Margaret Kibogy, the Managing Director of KDB, stated that additional talks were in progress to guarantee the safeguarding of Kenyan farmers. The temporary suspension was revoked after one week.
Ruto and his vice president, Rigathi Gachagua, have taken the lead in advocating for the welfare of farmers throughout the nation. Following their assumption of duties, the Kenya Kwanza administration implemented strategies to combat the influence of cartels within the milk, tea, and coffee sectors.
The President gave his word that his government will enhance the quantity of milk cooling facilities throughout the country.
Ruto’s Reason for Halting Ugandan Milk Powder