The government has launched a nationwide crackdown on illegal milk hawking as part of efforts to protect consumers and strengthen Kenya’s dairy industry. Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe warned that the unregulated sale of raw milk is becoming a major public health concern across the country.
Speaking during a recent briefing, Kagwe noted that many milk hawkers operate without proper licensing, hygiene standards, or quality checks, exposing consumers to dangerous diseases such as brucellosis, tuberculosis, and other bacterial infections. He said some traders transport and store milk in poor conditions, increasing the risk of contamination before it reaches households.
The CS emphasized that while milk hawking has become a source of income for many Kenyans, public safety must come first. He revealed that the government, through relevant agencies, will intensify inspections, enforce dairy regulations, and take legal action against individuals selling milk illegally.
Kagwe also raised concerns about the impact of informal milk trade on the formal dairy sector. According to the ministry, licensed dairy processors and farmers continue to suffer huge losses due to unfair competition from unregulated traders who avoid taxes and quality compliance costs.
The government is now encouraging farmers and milk traders to work with licensed cooperatives and dairy processors to ensure safe handling and better market access. Consumers have also been advised to buy milk from certified outlets and ensure it is properly pasteurized before consumption.
The crackdown signals a renewed push to improve food safety standards and restore confidence in Kenya’s growing dairy industry.
