Milk supplies to processors have declined by 3.7 per cent, raising concerns over the availability of some milk brands and pack sizes in parts of the country.
The Kenya Dairy Board (KDB) said formal milk deliveries to processors dropped from 84.4 million litres in June 2026 to 81.3 million litres in July, with preliminary indications pointing to a further decline in August.
In a media statement dated September 1, 2026, the Board reassured consumers that milk remains available in the market despite temporary supply constraints being experienced in some areas.
The decline has been linked largely to seasonal production conditions, particularly dry and cold weather affecting key milk-producing regions.
"Kenya Dairy Board wishes to reassure the public, consumers and dairy industry stakeholders that milk continues to be available in the market, despite temporary supply constraints being experienced in some parts of the country," stated board Managing Director Dr William Maritim.
The Board said the constraints are being reflected in low stock levels, reduced availability of some brands and pack sizes and delayed replenishment in some outlets.
Pasteurised milk has reportedly been the most affected category, while long-life milk, including extended shelf-life (ESL) and ultra-high-temperature (UHT) milk, remains comparatively more available.
The situation could affect consumers who rely on fresh and pasteurised milk, particularly in areas where retailers are experiencing delays in restocking.
Despite the supply challenges, KDB said retail milk prices have generally remained stable across the country.
However, the Board acknowledged that some areas experiencing supply constraints have recorded upward movements in milk prices.
The latest development comes amid seasonal pressure on dairy farmers, with dry and cold conditions affecting pasture and fodder availability. According to KDB, the situation is expected to improve with the anticipated October-November-December 2026 rainfall season.
The Board expects the rains to support the recovery of pasture and fodder, which would subsequently improve milk production and supplies as weather conditions become more favourable.
KDB said the government is also implementing measures intended to strengthen milk production and improve the resilience of the dairy value chain. Among the interventions is 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 increased production over time.
“These interventions among others will contribute to increased production and more stable milk supplies over time,” the Board said.
The Board said it is continuing to monitor milk production, formal deliveries to processors, market availability and retail prices in response to the current situation.
KDB also said it is working with stakeholders in the dairy industry to maintain continuity of supply and prevent the temporary constraints from developing into a prolonged shortage.
The Board sought to reassure consumers that the current situation is temporary and linked primarily to seasonal production conditions.
The milk supply situation is significant for Kenyan households because dairy products form a major part of everyday consumption, while the sector supports millions of farmers and other players involved in milk collection, processing, transportation and retail. For consumers, the immediate impact is expected to vary depending on location and the type of milk purchased.
While some outlets may continue to have adequate supplies, others could experience reduced availability of particular brands and package sizes until deliveries improve.
KDB said it will continue supporting measures aimed at ensuring adequate and stable milk supplies under the leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development.
The Board's latest figures show that formal deliveries had already fallen by 3.1 million litres between June and July, while August data was still being compiled as of September 1.
The coming months will therefore be closely watched as the dairy sector awaits improved pasture and fodder conditions following the expected October-December rains.
