Gachagua Jokes About Buffalo Milk as Opposition Leaders Visit Wamunyoro

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has mocked President William Ruto’s proposal to explore buffalo milk production, using the remarks to criticise the government’s agricultural policies as he held talks with opposition leaders ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Speaking at his Wamunyoro residence after returning from an extended visit to the United States, Gachagua joked that he had sent young men to Hombe Forest to find out whether there were enough buffaloes to supply milk for the growing number of political visitors arriving at his home. His comments followed Ruto’s proposal to explore alternative sources of milk production as Kenya faces dairy supply challenges linked to persistent drought conditions.

Gachagua used the suggestion to question the government’s approach to agricultural challenges and the rising cost of living. The controversy began on 8 October, when Ruto addressed the Agriculture and Food Security Transformation Summit at the Jamhuri Park ASK Showground in Nairobi. 

The President called for the diversification of milk production, questioning why Kenya could not explore buffalo milk as part of efforts to improve food security and increase dairy output. Gachagua’s remarks came on the same day he hosted leaders associated with the Linda Mwananchi movement, led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna. 

The meeting formed part of ongoing consultations among opposition figures seeking to build a united front against Ruto in the next election. During the meeting, Gachagua expressed his willingness to engage other opposition leaders in discussions aimed at identifying a common presidential candidate. He urged the leaders to approach coalition negotiations without preconditions and prioritise agreement on a candidate capable of challenging the incumbent.

The discussions reflect the continuing efforts by opposition figures, including Gachagua, Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and other political leaders, to establish their positions ahead of the 2027 contest. Their challenge is to reconcile individual political ambitions with the need to present a united alternative to Ruto.

Gachagua also argued that growing public dissatisfaction with the country’s economic and political situation could create an opportunity for a change of government. He said his immediate priorities included strengthening his Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), increasing its representation in Parliament and protecting the interests of his political supporters.

Wamunyoro has increasingly become a meeting point for opposition leaders seeking to discuss possible alliances ahead of the next election. Gachagua acknowledged the growing number of politicians seeking meetings at his residence and repeated his joke about ensuring there was enough buffalo milk for his guests.