Zimbabwe targets 15% increase in milk production to achieve self-sufficiency

ZIMBABWE – Zimbabwe is on track to achieving milk self-sufficiency, with stakeholders targeting a 15% increase in raw milk output from 115 million litres last year to 132 million litres this year. 

The country requires 131 million litres of milk annually to meet domestic demand and is currently 16 million litres short of this target. 

A report by the Dairy Services Unit (DSU) indicated that raw milk production rose by 15 percent, from 99.8 million litres in 2023 to 114.7 million litres last year.

Zimbabwe Association of Dairy Farmers (ZADF) national chairman, Edward Warambwa, reported that the steady increase in milk production positions the country to meet its self-sufficiency target this year. 

He noted that ZADF, in collaboration with development partners, the Government, and the private sector, had introduced a breeding strategy aimed at improving dairy genetics and expanding the national herd. 

He highlighted the need for policies that promote investment in alternative energy technologies, including solar and biogas, to support the sector’s growth. 

He added that tax incentives for investors and funding for such initiatives could enhance irrigation development, farm road improvements, and mechanisation.

Government efforts to support national herd growth have focused on breeding programmes, improved access to hybrid semen and vaccines, and pasture development through input support initiatives. 

Prioritization of power supply to dairy farmers has also been implemented to ensure the maintenance of cold chain systems. 

According to Warambwa, patient capital is required to finance investments such as genetic improvement through artificial insemination, procurement of bulk milk tanks and milking machines, and refurbishment of milk collection centres.

He praised the ongoing collaboration between ZADF, the Government, and private sector players, which has facilitated access to extension services, enhancing operational efficiency. 

Warambwa noted that many farmers had adopted cost-effective strategies to maximise milk yields while minimising feed costs. 

Despite the impact of El Niño conditions, several dairy farmers had sustained their production through feed preservation techniques, including silage production and hay baling.

However, challenges persist in the sector, with Warambwa citing high production costs driven by elevated feed prices, which reduce the competitiveness of Zimbabwean dairy products under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). 

He also observed that outdated infrastructure and limited mechanisation were negatively affecting productivity. 

Poor road conditions had further complicated milk transportation, with some farmers experiencing losses due to prolonged transit times.

Limited access to affordable financing and investment opportunities remains a major constraint, restricting the ability of dairy farmers to expand and modernise their operations.