This is in response to growing challenges in Kenya's dairy sector.
Bio Foods' strategy to support local farmers includes investments in regenerative farming practices
The unveiling of Bio Foods Products Limited's third Sustainability Report in Nairobi on November 5, 2024/HANDOUTBio Food Products Ltd has rolled out a series of initiatives aimed at strengthening support for local dairy farmers.
This is in response to growing challenges in Kenya's dairy sector.
This is part of its third Sustainability Report, 'Growing Responsibly, Feeding Sustainably' launched on Tuesday.
The report launched at the company’s Nairobi headquarters, highlights Bio Foods' commitment to bolstering sustainable farming practices and supporting Kenya’s agriculture sector.
With strategies ranging from regenerative farming to financial support for farmers, Bio Foods aims to create a positive ripple effect across Kenya’s food supply chain, while contributing to Kenya’s long-term sustainability goals.
Bio Foods' strategy to support local farmers includes investments in regenerative farming practices to improve soil health and enhance biodiversity.
These practices involve training programs for farmers on sustainable soil management techniques, aiming to increase crop yields, boost farm resilience, and reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers.
"Our commitment to regenerative farming empowers farmers with the skills they need to foster long-term agricultural sustainability," Bio Foods CEO Joachim Westerveld said.
Westerveld underscored the company’s dedication to nurturing Kenya's agricultural backbone.
Bio Food CEO Joachim Westerveld speaks during the unveiling of the third Bio sustainability Report on November 5, 2024/HANDOUTOne of the cornerstone strategies introduced by Bio Foods is a new approach to milk pricing.
To protect farmers from market fluctuations, Bio Foods pays them based on the actual cost of milk production, particularly during times of surplus and drought.
This pricing model helps shield farmers from volatile market prices, creating stability and building strong, trust-based relationships within the supply chain.
Westerveld emphasised the importance of this approach, noting that it fosters reliability and strengthens the partnership between Bio Foods and its farmers.
To further enhance farmer productivity, Bio Foods provides free extension services focused on optimizing feeding strategies, water conservation, and efficient energy usage.
Farmers receive training on feeding rations that maximize yields and profitability, as well as sustainable techniques for water and energy management.
This hands-on guidance has enabled farmers to boost both their productivity and sustainability practices.
"We have remained steadfast in our mission to prioritize the well-being of our employees, farmers, customers, and the environment," Westerveld said.
Environment CS Adan Duale during the launch of Bio Sustainability report on November 5, 2024/ HANDOUTBio Foods also incentivises high-quality milk production by offering bonuses on top of base prices for meeting specific standards in areas like aflatoxin levels, total bacterial load, and butterfat content.
By rewarding quality, the company not only promotes better returns for farmers but also supports environmental goals by reducing carbon emissions per kilogram of milk produced.
This quality-based bonus structure encourages practices that are beneficial to both the farming community and the environment.
Another key component of Bio Foods’ strategy is education on sustainable business practices through the Bio Stewardship standards.
These standards cover essential areas such as animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and worker welfare.
Farmers are trained on humane animal handling, timely treatment of sick animals, and efficient water use, ensuring both quality and sustainability in milk production.
Worker welfare initiatives include providing protective clothing, fair wages, proper rest periods, and measures to reduce exposure to chemicals.
These comprehensive efforts ensure a safe workplace and a stable, skilled workforce in the dairy supply chain.
Animal welfare is a priority within Bio Foods’ support programme.
Farmers are encouraged to maintain humane practices, such as gentle handling and timely medical care for sick animals, which contribute to higher milk yields and animal well-being.
Additionally, environmental stewardship practices include proper waste disposal, efficient water use, and annual water testing, ensuring minimal environmental impact and supporting the company’s sustainability objectives.
"Sustainability remains at the core of our ethos. We are committed to being leaders in our field, demonstrating that a successful business can be synonymous with environmental responsibility, product safety, and employee well-being," the CEO added.
The launch event, officiated by Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry Aden Duale, highlighted the role of partnerships between the private sector and government in advancing sustainable agriculture.
“Bio Foods alignment with our national climate and sustainability goals demonstrates the strength of such partnerships,” Duale said.
He praised Bio Foods' efforts as vital to Kenya’s environmental resilience and food security.
By addressing economic, social, and environmental sustainability, Bio Foods is not only boosting local agriculture but also setting a model for other companies to follow.
