Zimbabwe’s dairy industry sees revival with pasture-based farming

ZIMBABWE – Zimbabwe’s dairy sector is experiencing a significant resurgence, driven by innovative pasture-based farming methods. 

At the forefront of this revival is Mafuro Farming, a leading dairy operation that has embraced a low-cost, sustainable model to boost milk production. 

The farm, founded by Sean Webster in 2018, operates across two sites in Mashonaland and Midlands, managing a herd of 2,500 dairy cows, with 1,400 currently in the milking herd.

According to industry experts, Zimbabwe’s milk production has been on a steady rise, with the country aiming to achieve self-sufficiency by the end of 2025. 

In the early 1990s, Zimbabwe was a net exporter of milk, producing over 250 million liters annually. 

However, political challenges, including land reforms under former President Robert Mugabe, caused a sharp decline in output. 

A report by The Zimbabwean highlights that national production dropped significantly but has rebounded in recent years, reaching 99.6 million liters in 2023 and an estimated 115 million liters in 2024. 

The country requires 131 million liters annually to meet domestic demand, a target now within reach.

Mafuro Farming’s success lies in its pasture-based system, utilizing Holstein Jersey crossbred cows suited to grazing. 

Webster, who gained experience in New Zealand’s dairy industry, has implemented a model that keeps costs low while maximizing output. 

“We are breeding a smaller, hardier animal that thrives in our environment,” Webstersaid.

The operation spans 600 hectares of irrigated land, where cow manure is collected and reused as fertilizer, enhancing soil health and reducing expenses.

The farm’s efforts align with broader national goals. Zimbabwe’s dairy industry has faced challenges like high feed costs, unreliable electricity, and limited access to veterinary supplies.

 Despite these hurdles, Mafuro Farming sells its milk to ProDairy at 60 to 65 US cents per liter, maintaining profitability. 

Webster noted, “Our low-cost model ensures we make a profit even with production costs averaging 60 cents per liter.” 

The farm employs 45 staff across its two locations and retains all heifer calves for herd expansion, while bull calves are donated to local communities.

As the nation edges closer to its 131-million-liter target, experts say sustainable practices like these could pave the way for a dairy surplus, reviving Zimbabwe’s status as a regional leader.