Buffalo Millers’ Journey to Enhanced Production and Quality

Buffalo Millers, a maize flour milling company in Kenya, has experienced remarkable growth, increasing its milling capacity from 20 metric tons of maize per day to 100 metric tons, and is now operating at a capacity of 220 metric tons. Over the years, the company has undergone significant transformation. With the support of Millers for Nutrition, Buffalo Millers has effectively managed its growth, improving product quality, expanding its reach, and ensuring a positive customer experience. The company has made notable strides in operations, including advancements in quality control, fortification practices, and food safety management.

This success can be attributed to several key factors, including a strong commitment from top management to quality and continuous improvement, streamlined processes, and a focus on delivering an exceptional customer experience. For instance, the facility has significantly improved operational efficiency, reducing grain truck unloading times from over two hours to just 30 minutes, enhancing traceability of the final product, and optimizing production capacity.

“Our ability to produce more while maintaining high quality has unlocked new market opportunities and strengthened our customer relationships,” said Ruth Butende, Quality Control Personnel at Buffalo Millers. “Since receiving technical assistance, we’ve made substantial improvements to our processes, ensuring that tasks are executed accurately and that every staff member understands their role. We now use detailed checklists for each procedure, streamlining workflows and ensuring the quality of our final products.”

As part of their improvements, Buffalo Millers has revamped its Standard Operating Procedures to prioritize safety, achieving the prestigious Diamond Mark. This achievement has positioned the company to pursue ISO 22000 certification, an international standard for Food Safety Management Systems awarded to mills that consistently provide safe products and services.

The enhanced focus on quality has also boosted employee morale, fostering a positive work environment and increasing productivity, which in turn leads to a better customer experience. “The technical assistance provided by Millers for Nutrition has not only enhanced our operational efficiency but also significantly improved our employees’ work experience,” said Kelvin Chepkener. “The combination of improved safety, clearer processes, and a shared vision has created a more positive, engaged, and productive workforce.”

Millers for Nutrition at  IAOM’s 13th Southeast Asia Region Conference & Expo in Surabaya, Indonesia. 

Indonesia Program Manager Evelyn Djuwidja recently presented at IAOM’s 13th Southeast Asia Region Conference & Expo in Surabaya. This conference brought together experts in wheat flour milling, from manufacturing to QA/QC, testing, fortification and the latest innovations in the industry.

Evelyn provided information on the good work being done by the Millers for Nutrition coalition and its mission to improve nutrition to 1 billion people by 2026.

November 2024 Miller of the Month: Rahat Agarwal, Fort Fit Foods Pvt. Ltd. of India

Bio Analyt Founder Florian Schweigert (left) presents an award to Rahat Agarwal.

November 2024 Miller of Month: Rahat Agarwal, Director, Fort Fit Foods Pvt. Ltd., India

Winner: Rising Milling Star of Food Fortification and Nutrition (Rice) at the Champions of Food Fortification and Nutrition Awards by Millers for Nutrition

What motivated you to join the Millers for Nutrition Coalition?

My motivation to join the Millers for Nutrition coalition stemmed from a deep understanding of the challenges facing our sector. As a developing industry, we are at a pivotal moment where collaboration and support are crucial for navigating the complexities of food fortification. The coalition stands out as a unique platform that genuinely advocates for millers, addressing our concerns and recognizing our essential role in the supply chain. The opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and share insights has been invaluable. Upon learning about the coalition’s initiatives, I felt an intrinsic motivation to contribute and be part of a community that prioritizes collective wellbeing and the nutritional health of families.

Tell us about your commitment to food fortification

Our commitment to food fortification was ignited in 2020 when we established this vital wing of our company. We encountered alarming data highlighting the prevalence of malnutrition both globally and in India, which was profoundly concerning. The implications of failing to address these nutritional deficiencies are significant, particularly for future generations. We believe that nutrition is foundational to a sustainable and thriving society. Fortification not only addresses immediate health needs but also serves as a strategic response to challenges such as crop failures exacerbated by climate change. At FORT-FIT FOODS, we are resolutely dedicated to advancing fortification efforts, recognizing it as a critical pathway to ensuring the nutritional wellbeing of communities.

How has the technical assistance from Millers for Nutrition impacted your business?

The technical assistance from Millers for Nutrition has had a transformative impact on our operations. We have successfully facilitated several technology transfers that have enhanced our production capabilities. Additionally, engaging with industry experts has provided us with invaluable insights and strategies to optimize our factory operations. This collaboration has not only improved our efficiency but has also fostered a culture of innovation within our team. Overall, the support from Millers for Nutrition has been instrumental in driving our growth and commitment to excellence in food fortification.

What advice do you have for other millers?

My advice to fellow millers is to view our industry not as a competitive race but as a collaborative marathon. Each of us operates at our own pace, but together, we can reach common goals. Embrace the importance of knowledge sharing; do not hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance when faced with challenges. The insights gained from others can be a catalyst for growth and improvement. Remember, the only questions that go unanswered are the ones we do not ask. By fostering an environment of openness and collaboration, we can collectively elevate our industry and make a lasting impact on food fortification.

Welcome Golden Africa Limited!

Golden Africa Limited, a prominent player in Kenya’s edible oil and fats industry, recently joined Millers for Nutrition. The company is known for their vegetable oils and cooking fats under the Pike and Avena brands.The company is working towards FSSC 22000 certification, a globally recognized food safety management system. Achieving this certification, would demonstrate Golden Africa Limited’s  commitment to implementing and maintaining the highest standards of food safety.

By fortifying their range of edible oils and fats, Golden Africa Limited is set to play a pivotal role in improving public health outcomes by ensuring the Kenyans using their products are eating adequately fortified cooking oil.

Technical Assistance Success: Moshono Millers, Tanzania

Moshono Millers, a leading maize flour miller in Tanzania, sought help solving operational challenges. By partnering with Millers for Nutrition, the facility not only resolved critical production issues but also enhanced its market footprint and community role.


Through targeted technical support, Moshono Millers was able to replace the malfunctioning dosifier and work with SANKU to install a new dosifier with advanced vibration technology. The upgrade boosted production from two to 10 tonnes per day.

“Our operational turnaround and efficiency has significantly driven business growth, expanding our market share from 50% to over 70% of our output”, said Mary Mongela, Quality Control Manager. “With this enhanced production, we’ve secured high-value clients like the TBS and the Tanzanian military, tripling their monthly orders from between 50 – 100 to 200 bags. This underscores the crucial role of targeted technical investments in boosting our market competitiveness.”

Beyond business metrics, Moshono Millers has been involved with behavior change communication and advocacy at the community level educating community members on the value of consistently consuming fortified flour. This dual focus on business growth and social responsibility illustrates the broader impact of strategic operational improvements.

“I never thought that I would become a food fortification ambassador,” said Mongela. “When we are out for sales, community members often ask why fortification is important as there has been a lot of misinformation. As community members seek clarity, there’s a growing need for educational support. We look to Millers for Nutrition for training support to better equip our teams and address these vital questions.“

Moshono Millers’ journey underscores how strategic technical assistance can transform operational landscapes, drive substantial business growth and elevate community health standards. For industry leaders, this case study exemplifies the value of aligning business objectives with community needs, promoting a holistic approach to sustainable growth and leadership in fortified nutrition advocacy. “I encourage all millers to become members of Millers for Nutrition. The support and technical assistance we received were pivotal in overcoming our challenges,” said Mongela.

Transforming the Rice Sector in Nigeria

Transforming the Rice Sector in Nigeria

Rice millers in Kano recently participated in an intensive four-day technical training program that aimed to reshape Nigeria’s rice fortification landscape. The comprehensive workshop put together by Millers for Nutrition in collaboration with Strategic Fortification Partner dsm-firmenich, local technical partner Bühler Group, and fortification ecosystem partners World Food Programme and Partners in Food Solutions, delivered advanced insights into rice mill operations and fortification techniques.

The training brought together Production and Quality Managers, equipping them with practical skills to enhance their milling operations and implement effective fortification processes. Through hands-on sessions and expert-led discussions, participants gained deep insights into modern milling practices and nutrition enhancement strategies.

Listen to participants share their experiences in this video

Millers for Nutrition and Fortify Health Team Up to Empower Nutrition and Enrich Lives in India

Millers for Nutrition, in partnership with Fortify Health, recently co-sponsored the 61st Annual General Meeting of the U.P. Roller Flour Millers Association. This event introduced TechnoServe and Millers for Nutrition to the association, highlighting the coalition’s objectives and inviting millers to join the movement. Fortify Health works to increase access to micronutrient-rich wheat flour, reducing and preventing iron-deficiency anaemia.

Abhishek Shukla, Country Program Manager, emphasized the importance of flour fortification efforts across the state, while Deepti Gulati, Senior Advisor at TechnoServe, shared valuable insights from past projects and the Take Home Ration (THR) scheme. The event drew attendees from the Government of Uttar Pradesh, including Shri Suresh Kumar Khanna, Cabinet Minister for Finance and Parliamentary Affairs, and Shri Manoj Kumar Singh, Chief Secretary. Other key attendees included Dharmendra Jain, President of UPRFMA and Navneet Chitlangia, President of the Roller Flour Millers Federation of India. The event, attended by over 150 millers, served as a catalyst for advancing food fortification conversations.

Millers for Nutrition Advocates for Rice Fortification at National Seminar

Jakarta, Indonesia – Evelyn Djuwidja, Program Manager for Millers for Nutrition Indonesia, took center stage at the recent national seminar and workshop on “Innovations in Rice Fortification Technology”. The event, held in Jakarta, brought together key stakeholders from the Indonesian government, development partners, and local rice millers.

As the Nutrition partner for the seminar, Millers for Nutrition emphasized the importance of rice fortification in achieving Indonesia’s ambitious #GoldenIndonesia2045 vision. This initiative aims to improve food and nutrition security nationwide.

“Rice fortification is a critical step towards nourishing Indonesia and the world,” said Evelyn Djuwidja. “By working together, we can ensure that every Indonesian has access to nutritious food, paving the way for a healthier and more prosperous future.”

The seminar and workshop provided a platform for experts to share innovative solutions, best practices, and challenges in rice fortification. Attendees included representatives from:

– Indonesian Government

– Development partners

– Local rice millers

– Nutrition experts

Millers for Nutrition’s participation underscores its commitment to supporting Indonesia’s food fortification efforts. By collaborating with local stakeholders, the organization aims to improve nutrition and public health outcomes for millions.

“Together, let’s nourish Indonesia and the world!”

Millers Table – UPRFMA, Lucknow India

Millers for Nutrition and Fortify Health Team Up to Empower Nutrition and Enrich Lives

In a significant step towards combating malnutrition, Millers for Nutrition, in partnership with Fortify Health, co-sponsored the 61st Annual General Meeting of the U.P. Roller Flour Millers Association. This event marked a crucial milestone in introducing TechnoServe and Millers for Nutrition to the association, highlighting the coalition’s objectives and inviting millers to join the movement.

Abhishek Shukla, Country Program Manager, emphasized the importance of flour fortification efforts across the state, while Mrs. Deepti Gulati, Senior Advisor at TechnoServe, shared valuable insights from past projects and Take Home Rations (THR). The event drew esteemed attendees, including Shri Suresh Kumar Khanna, Cabinet Minister for Finance and Parliamentary Affairs, and Shri Manoj Kumar Singh, Chief Secretary, both from the Government of Uttar Pradesh.

Key Attendees:

  • Shri Suresh Kumar Khanna, Cabinet Minister for Finance and Parliamentary Affairs (Govt of Uttar Pradesh)
  • Shri Manoj Kumar Singh, Chief Secretary (Govt of Uttar Pradesh)
  • Mr. Dharmendra Jain, President of UPRFMA
  • Mr. Navneet Chitlangia, President of the Roller Flour Miller’s Federation of India

With over 150 millers in attendance, the event provided a platform for valuable discussions and congratulations on Millers For Nutrition’s success in strengthening food fortification. This collaboration with the UP Roller Flour Millers Association brings Millers for Nutrition closer to its mission of improving nutrition for 1 billion people by 2026. Stay tuned for more updates on this journey!

Fortify Health has been working tirelessly to enable access to micronutrient-rich wheat flour, reducing and preventing iron-deficiency anaemia. Their partnership with the Food Fortification Initiative supports wheat flour fortification in Indian government programs.

Millers for Nutrition adds India to effort

We are thrilled to announce  East Coast Fats and Oil Ltd,  in  Tanzania , recently joined Millers for Nutrition. This collaboration marks a significant step toward enhancing quality assurance in vitamin A fortification. 

Recently, East Coast Fats and Oils and Millers for Nutrition sampled the vitamin A premix for quality testing – a significant step in addressing fortification challenges. The data obtained from these tests will play a crucial role in refining the fortification processes, ensuring that products comply with both national and international nutrition standards. Millers for Nutrition is dedicated to supporting millers in their effort  to improve  nutrition for  Tanzanians. We invite all millers to join. Learn more at www.millersfornutrition.com