Camel milk in Kenya is an important livestock product that supports pastoral livelihoods and growing urban demand. It has an opaque white colour and a slightly salty taste. It also has a thinner consistency than cow milk. In addition, its small fat globules reduce cream separation, which gives it a uniform texture.
Producers in Kenya sell camel milk in several forms. They sell it raw in rural areas, especially among pastoral communities. They also supply pasteurised milk in bottles or sealed pouches for urban markets. Furthermore, processors convert part of the milk into fermented products such as Suusa, a traditional sour drink. In some cases, they also produce yoghurt, butter, and cheese, although these products remain limited in commercial supply.
Kenya leads global camel milk production with about 1.165 million metric tonnes annually. The country keeps approximately 4.72 million camels, mainly in Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Isiolo, and Marsabit counties. As a result, camel milk plays a major role in the arid and semi-arid regions.
Farmers rear four main camel breeds. Pakistani crossbreeds produce the highest yield at 4–7 litres per day. Similarly, Somali camels produce 3–5 litres daily. In contrast, Rendile and Gabbra camels produce 1–3 litres. Turkana camels produce about 1–1.25 litres per day. Pastoralists milk these animals twice daily, and they maintain production throughout the year. Moreover, camels continue producing milk during droughts when cattle production drops sharply. During dry seasons, camel milk can provide up to half of household nutrition.
Camel milk contains about 3.5% fat, 3.1% protein, and 4.4% lactose. It also provides high vitamin C levels compared to cow milk. In addition, it contains iron, zinc, lactoferrin, lysozyme, and immunoglobulins. Unlike cow milk, it does not contain beta-lactoglobulin, which often triggers allergies.
Consumers value camel milk for its functional benefits. They associate it with anti-diabetic, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immune-supporting properties.Retail prices range between KES 150–250 per litre, making it a premium dairy product in Kenya.