Introduction to the New Milk Collection and Service Centre
Bio Foods Products Ltd has taken a significant step forward by opening a new Milk Collection and Service Centre (MCSC) in Chaka, Nyeri County. This initiative is aimed at strengthening the dairy value chain and improving the incomes of local farmers. The centre was officially launched on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, during an event that brought together key players from the dairy sector in Kenya and the Netherlands.
Key Attendees and Their Contributions
The event was attended by a number of notable figures, including Bio Foods Products Executive Chairman and CEO Joachim Westerveld, Bles Dairies CEO Tsjalling Bles, ABPL Managing Director Kevin Kinisu, Safaricom Digifarm Director Seema Gohil, Unga Group PLC Managing Director James Nyutu, Hon. Omingo Magara of EuroDairy, Mercy Mbogo from the Kenya Dairy Board, and the Agricultural Counselor of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Bart Pauwels.
These individuals represent a diverse range of stakeholders, including private companies, government institutions, and knowledge partners. Together, they are united by a common goal: to make the Kenyan dairy sector stronger, more sustainable, and more profitable.
Addressing Challenges in the Dairy Sector
The new centre is designed to tackle long-standing challenges faced by dairy farmers, particularly the need for a central hub offering integrated services. Officials stated that the goal is to transform dairy farming into a more sustainable, profitable, and knowledge-driven enterprise.
H.E. Pauwels praised the collaboration, describing the new milk collection and service center as a model of what joint efforts can achieve. He emphasized that this initiative brings together Dutch and Kenyan private companies, government institutions, and knowledge partners all working toward one goal.
Embracing Quality-Based Pricing
Westerveld highlighted that the sector is ready to embrace a new era of milk pricing based on quality. He believes this shift will encourage farmers to pursue knowledge and improve their production methods. “Every dairy processor is now ready to endorse quality-based pricing. The moment you incentivize farmers, they will be interested in knowledge and learning,” he said.
He also pointed out that financing remains essential for smallholder farmers. Access to credit for feed and fodder, he added, will significantly increase milk output.
Services Offered by the Chaka Centre
The Chaka centre will serve as a one-stop hub for farmers in the region. According to the organizers, it will provide access to high-quality animal feed and nutrition guidance, practical training on sustainable farm and herd management, and financial services to help farmers invest in their businesses.
In addition, the facility will offer reliable market access and quality assurance systems designed to ensure farmers receive fair returns for their milk. Beyond daily services, the centre will also act as a platform for innovation, research, and farmer-focused technologies aimed at building resilience and long-term sector growth.
Importance of Dairy Farmers
During the launch, industry leaders stressed that dairy farmers remain at the heart of Kenya’s food security. They emphasized that equipping producers with the right knowledge, tools, and market opportunities is essential for the country’s nutrition and economic stability.
The centre is expected to improve milk quality, enhance farming practices, and increase household incomes. Officials said the project mirrors a shared belief among all partners: that a stronger dairy sector starts with empowered farmers who have access to the services they need to succeed.
Conclusion
The establishment of the new Milk Collection and Service Centre marks a pivotal moment for the Kenyan dairy sector. With its comprehensive approach to supporting farmers, the centre is poised to drive meaningful change and foster long-term growth in the industry.