Milk Society and Industrialisation in East Africa

Abstract

This paper explored the relationship of milk society and industrialisation in East Africa by analysing milk production and inclusive mechanisation. Study countries are Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda and South Sudan as East African Community (EAC) member states. The application of documentary research and literature analysis methods revealed that the milk societies are heading towards industrialisation through mechanisation of milk production. However, opportunities still exist in non-mechanised or traditional milk production via milking cows by hand. This study recommends that additional revenue sources for milk societies through cultural tourism by welcoming visitors to experience non-mechanised milk production as seen in Igongo Cultural Centre Museum should be promoted in order to have sustainable industrialisation but consider the culture attachments and views to cows for each country. The implication of this study is for stakeholders to emphasise mechanized milk production by small-scale producers relating to pasture so as to promote inclusive industrialisation.

Keywords: milk society, industrialisation, East Africa