THE ROLE OF DAIRY COOPERATIVE SOCIETIES IN SUSTAINABLE DAIRY DEVELOPMENT IN KENYA: AN ASSESSMENT OF STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS
Abstract
Dairy cooperative societies play a significant role in the sustainable development of the dairy sub-sector, particularly in empowering communities. However, the distribution of benefits to smallholder farmers from these cooperatives is not even. While milk marketing and collection services are widely offered, access to information, the ability to save and budget, and cow insurance services are less provided. To improve the performance of dairy cooperatives, there is a need to identify constraints affecting their performance and the available options to enhance their benefits.This study aimed to assess the role of dairy cooperative societies in sustainable dairy development in Kenya. A descriptive survey design was used, and data was collected from dairy co-operative managers, livestock production officers, co-operative officers from the County Government, and dairy cooperative members. Results showed that interaction between dairy cooperatives and other actors in the dairy value chain is crucial in achieving sustainable dairy development in Kenya. Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats Analysis of dairy cooperatives in Kenya revealed that despite the existence of weaknesses and threats such as importation of dairy products and inadequate infrastructure, exploiting existing opportunities using inherent strengths among dairy cooperatives would enhance sustainable development of the dairy sub-sector.The study highlights the potential of dairy cooperatives to improve productivity in the smallholder sector, enhance market participation by farmers, and contribute to poverty reduction, food security, and women's empowerment. The study recommends that development interventions target improving production, productivity, and marketing activities of smallholder farmers by addressing constraints in the sector through collective organizations such as farmer cooperatives and associations.
