The Meru Dairy Cooperative Union has officially launched a new website aimed at marketing and selling cows on behalf of farmers.
The initiative is meant to address the challenges faced by dairy farmers in selling their livestock at fair and competitive prices.
The innovation was officially launched by President William Ruto when he presided over the 10th Meru Dairy Co-operative Union farmers day at Gitoro showground in Meru town.
Speaking during the occasion, Meru Dairy Co-operative Union CEO Kenneth Gitonga said that farmers have long struggled with low market prices for their cows.
He regretted that the farmers are often forced to sell their livestock at a loss.
“It has become increasingly hard for farmers to find reliable buyers, and when they do, the cows are sold at a very low price that does not reflect their value,” Gitonga explained.
To help change this, the union has now created an online platform that will enable the cooperative to sell cows directly on behalf of its members.
The initiative is expected to connect farmers to better markets and ensure they receive fair compensation for their livestock.
“This platform will not only give farmers better visibility but also ensure transparency in pricing. Our goal is to help farmers get the value they deserve,” Gitonga said.
The move is part of a wider effort by the Meru Dairy Union to embrace technology and improve the livelihoods of its members.
The union has also been exploring other digital solutions to streamline milk collection, payments, and access to veterinary services.
Farmers within the cooperative have welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that it will improve their income and reduce exploitation by middlemen.
