Zimbabwe dairy sector to integrate beef cattle for increased milk production

ZIMBABWE – The Zimbabwe Association of Dairy Farmers (ZADF) is advocating for the integration of ordinary beef cattle into milk production as the country pursues the  goal of achieving 150 million litres of milk by 2025.

Mrs. Paidamoyo Chadoka, the ZADF Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the potential benefits of cross-breeding beef and dairy cattle to leverage new milk-producing capabilities and significantly boost overall milk output.

“This approach recognizes the value that beef cattle can bring to the dairy production landscape. By tapping into the milk-yielding capacity of traditional beef cows, the dairy sector could diversify and expand milk sources, thereby complementing the efforts of specialized dairy herds,” she said.

In addition, she noted that integrating beef cattle into the dairy production system could contribute to achieving greater self-sufficiency in milk supply.

This dual-purpose approach has the potential to bolster the country’s total milk production and strengthen its position as a regional breadbasket.

In Zimbabwe, the dairy industry has been experiencing significant growth due to various government-led initiatives addressing critical issues such as genetic improvement, disease resilience, and feed availability.

“The Government’s efforts should now focus on supporting smallholder farmers, investing in modern dairy infrastructure, promoting sustainable farming practices, and ensuring an enabling policy environment,” Mrs. Chadoka emphasized.

According to the National Dairy Services Unit (DSU), raw milk production in Zimbabwe has reached 48% of the revised annual target of 115 million liters in the first half of 2024.

Originally projected to rise by 13% from last year’s 100 million liters, the latest statistics show a 20% increase, with production reaching 55,116,145 liters from January to June 2024. June alone saw a 17% rise compared to the previous year, highlighting the sector’s positive momentum.

However, the ZADF national chairman, Mr. Edward Warambwa, noted a slight month-on-month production decline from May to June, attributed to pasture deterioration and reduced water availability due to an El Niño-inspired drought.

Despite this, Zimbabwe has set an ambitious milk production target of 113 million liters for 2024, with plans to increase this figure to 150 million liters by 2025.

According to the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development’s Dairy Services Department, achieving these targets will require continued investment in livestock additions and enhancements in milk productivity per cow per day.

The ZADF’s innovative approach, along with sustained government support and strategic investments, holds promise for Zimbabwe’s dairy sector to not only meet but exceed its production targets, contributing to improved national food security and economic stability.