Raw Milk Production Reaches 20-Year High

Witness Runodada

Zim Now Writer

Zimbabwe’s dairy industry has hit a major milestone, with raw milk production reaching 105 million liters in the first 11 months of 2024. This marks a 16% increase from the 90.3 million liters recorded during the same period in 2023 and surpasses the previous record of 100 million liters set in 2005.

The Zimbabwe Association of Dairy Farmers attributes this remarkable growth to various initiatives, including government-supported programs and improved farming practices.

According to Antonnette Chingwe, ZADF’s Policy and Development Officer, programs like the Dairy Heifer Pass-On Program, funded by the African Development Bank, have significantly contributed to increasing milk volumes.

“The Presidential Silage Scheme and the promotion of pasture utilization in dairy and livestock enterprises have also been pivotal,” she said.

Chingwe highlighted that the launch of a breeding strategy has ensured farmers access the right dairy breeds at subsidized prices, while artificial insemination programs and subsidized semen facilities under the Dairy Revitalization Program have supported herd expansion.

Furthermore, she emphasized the importance of disease control measures, such as Foot and Mouth Disease vaccine support, and the role of pluralistic extension services by the private sector, government, and development partners.

To bridge the productivity gap between small-scale and commercial farmers, ZADF provides extensive training and support. “We have field officers across the country offering extension services, and we regularly hire experts to train farmers on breeding, nutrition, and veterinary services,” Chingwe explained.

She added that ZADF is a one-stop shop for all dairy-related information, from input supply to marketing, and actively lobbies decision-makers to protect the interests of small-scale producers.

"Our training programs on low-cost farming techniques and artificial insemination aim to increase productivity for small-scale farmers," she noted.

Despite the growth, the industry faces hurdles such as high feed costs, compliance requirements, and erratic power supply. Chingwe said ZADF actively lobbies for cost reductions and promotes on-farm feed production and formulation to mitigate feed costs.

“We also encourage investments in smart agricultural technologies like solar grid systems and biogas usage to counter power challenges,” she added.

Additionally, ZADF collaborates with key stakeholders to create a conducive policy environment and ensure farmers have access to affordable, tailor-made financial products.

ZADF has been instrumental in shaping the Zimbabwe Livestock Growth Programme.

“Through training on animal health, artificial insemination, and marketing of dairy products, we are building the capacity of farmers to run successful dairy businesses,” Chingwe said.

The Association has also partnered with universities and research institutions to improve breeding, nutrition, and disease control strategies.