Matungulu farmers get shot in the arm with new milk processing plant

The facility, valued at over Ksh. 10 million, was built entirely through farmers’ savings, shares, and contributions—without relying on bank loans. The farmers had purchased the plot earlier, paving the way for the construction of the modern plant.

Speaking during the launch, Dr. Douglas Makewa said the plant’s completion is the result of years of discipline and collective effort. Farmers contributed Kshs 2 from every litre of milk sold, with the proceeds later converted into individual shares. Additional funds came from the sale of a pickup truck the farmers had won through an M-Pesa promotion, which was also reinvested into the project.

“Every drop of milk contributed has brought us to this moment,” Dr. Makewa said. “This facility is more than a building—it’s a symbol of what farmers can achieve when they come together with a shared goal.”

The new processing plant will allow farmers to add value to their milk through pasteurization and production of products such as yogurt and mala. This is expected to increase profitability by reducing reliance on selling raw milk and ensuring better prices for producers. Currently, farmers in the area deliver over 3,700 litres of milk daily.

Machakos County Executive for Agriculture, Rita Ndunge, lauded the farmers’ achievement, noting that it sets a strong example for other cooperatives in the county. She said the county government plans to further empower farmers through grants, farm machinery, and cold storage equipment to enhance productivity and sustainability.

“We want to ensure that dairy farmers across Machakos have access to the right infrastructure—from coolers to e-voucher vaccinations—to improve animal health and product quality,” she said.

For farmers like Ann Mbithe, the plant represents renewed hope and opportunity.
“We are proud to see our hard work pay off,” she said. “With this new facility, we expect better returns and encourage other farmers to join us and grow together.”

The cooperative traces its roots to 1996, when a small group of farmers in Katuanyaa market came together with a dream of improving milk production and income. From just under ten members, the group has now grown to over 300, with an active membership of 85.

Over the years, they have also benefited from support by both the national and county governments, including equipment such as milk coolers, weighing balances, and solar heating systems.