EFFECT OF MINERAL MIX AND CONCENTRATE FEEDS ON MILK REVENUE OF SMALLHOLDER DAIRY FARMERS IN KAPSERET SUB-COUNTY

Abstract

Dairy farming contributes about eight percent of National Gross Domestic Product with an annual milk production of 3.43 billion litres. It supports the livelihood of approximately four million Kenyans through food provision, income generation and employment. However, milk production per individual animal in Kenya, averaging six to seven (6-7) litres/cow/day, is low compared to the world’s best at 10,133 litres/cow/year (28 litres/cow/day) mainly due to factors including poor feeding. This means that Kenya produces an average of 20 litres of milk less per cow per day compared to the world’s best. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of mineral mix and concentrate feeds on milk revenue of smallholder dairy farmers in Kapseret Sub-county. The study was conducted between the months of January-March, 2020. Primary data was collected using closed and open ended questionnaires. Karl Pearson’s product moment correlation was used to show the strength of the relationship between the variables. Multiple regression model was employed to assess the effect of supplementation on milk revenue. Results were presented in tables, and descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequencies. The results indicated a positive and statistically significant relationship between the variables (concentrate feeds and mineral mix) and milk revenue at (r=0.414, p=0.000) and (r=0.302, p=0.000), respectively. The relationship between mineral mix and concentrate feeds was positive and statistically significant (r=0.922, p=0.000). Subsequent feeding of homemade or commercial concentrates such as dairy meal and mineral mix to dairy animals also influenced milk revenue. The study concluded that mineral mix and concentrate feeds increased milk revenue of smallholder dairy farmers in Kapseret Sub-county. The study recommended the use of mineral mix, commercial concentrates or quality homemade concentrates in order to increase farmers’ milk revenue.