The County Government of Uasin Gishu has launched a pilot dairy feed preservation program aimed at tackling feed shortages that have long hampered efforts to upscale milk production in the region.

Implemented in partnership with the North Rift Dairy Farmers Cooperative Union, the initiative introduces modern silage-making technology to help farmers store excess fodder and ensure a steady feed supply throughout the year.

Despite being a leading dairy-producing region, Uasin Gishu County continues to experience feed insecurity, especially during dry seasons. Farmers say large quantities of fodder such as maize stalks and pasture grasses go to waste during peak harvest periods due to a lack of proper preservation methods, leading to fluctuating milk production and increased reliance on costly commercial feeds.

The pilot will deploy the Silage Master 3000, a technology designed to convert surplus fodder into nutrient-rich silage that can be stored for up to two years. Experts note that the system can process a wide range of materials, including Juncao grass and crop residues, helping farmers minimize waste while maintaining consistent livestock nutrition.

Speaking during the sensitization forum, Cooperatives and Enterprise Development Chief Officer Elphas Kesio noted that the program will be implemented through selected cooperative societies under the North Rift Dairy Farmers Cooperative Union to promote shared access and reduce costs.

Kesio also said that the pilot will guide future expansion, with training and technical support planned to ensure effective use of the equipment.

Farmers have welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that it will stabilize milk production, lower feed costs, and improve incomes. The county government believes the program could become a model for other regions, positioning Uasin Gishu County as a leader in sustainable, technology-driven dairy farming.

Present were Directors Abraham Kiptanui (Livestock) and Reuben Seroney (Agriculture), Druscilla Cherogony (Cooperatives).