Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Tassels Farming Ltd (TSL) aimed at modernizing the university’s dairy farming infrastructure and agribusiness initiatives.
This partnership is set to enhance JKUAT’s production of both local and exotic dairy breeds by utilizing the university’s facilities, including laboratories to develop high-yielding cows and goats.
The MoU emphasizes collaboration in organizing seminars and workshops focused on best practices in dairy farming and effective marketing strategies, providing staff and students with advanced training in modern techniques.
Under the partnership, young farmers will also be equipped with valuable skills and knowledge to boost rural economies and promote sustainable agribusiness practices. Additionally, both institutions will collaborate on marketing milk and dairy products.
Through this initiative, JKUAT aims to enhance its profile as a center of excellence in dairy innovation, strengthening its role as a leading institution in advancing dairy farming practices and agribusiness.
During the official MoU signing ceremony on Thursday 24, October 2024, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Ngumi, lauded TSL’s impact in the dairy sector saying, with over 17 years practical experience in the dairy value chain in breeding, purchase of cattle, feeding, health and milking technologies and value-addition, TSL will be an essential partner.
“This partnership will raise the profile of the University as a center of market driven training programmes, research and innovation. It will also enrich JKUAT’s academic programmes in agribusiness, said Prof. Ngumi.
With the MoU supporting the Government of Kenya in realizing the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) particularly under the agriculture and food security sector, the Vice chancellor stated that both institutions will leverage on their strengths to ensure the partnership remains vibrant.
‘With JKUAT’s expertise and TSL’s know-how, this collaboration will benefit dairy farmers starting in Kiambu County and extending to other regions in Kenya through improved facilities at JKUAT,” stated Prof. Ngumi.
Chief Executive of TSL Mr. Muturi Njoroge, was excited about the partnership with JKUAT, noting that the collaboration not only aims to enhance the university’s infrastructure but also serves as a model for the positive impact of University-Industry partnerships.
Mr. Njoroge emphasized that the combined expertise of both institutions will be crucial in addressing local farmers’ challenges, particularly the lack of credible and quality information.
“Combining the strengths of JKUAT as a reputable agricultural institution with TSL’s role as an agricultural innovation hub can lead to significant advancements in the sector. This partnership could foster cutting-edge research, enhance educational programs and promote practical solutions in agriculture,” concluded Mr. Njoroge.
