• Zimbabwe's raw milk production increased by 14.9% in 2024, reaching a record high of 114.7 million litres, surpassing the previous peak of 100 million litres set nearly two decades ago
  • The rise in production resulted from a combination of strategic investments by milk processors
  • The threat of smuggled dairy products poses significant risks to local producers

 

       

Harare-Zimbabwe's raw milk production increased by 14.9% in 2024, reaching a record high of 114.7 million litres, surpassing the previous peak of 100 million litres set nearly two decades ago.

This achievement not only surpassed the national target of 113 million litres but also exceeded the previous record of 100 million litres produced in 2005.

The increase in production was due to a combination of strategic investments by milk processors like Dairibord and government initiatives.

In 2024, processor intake of raw milk increased to 105.7 million litres, reflecting a 15.2% rise from 91.76 million litres in 2023.

With a growth in production, retail sales saw an upward trend, rising to 8.99 million litres, which represented an 11.6% increase from 8.06 million litres in the previous year.

However, despite these improvements in production and sales, annual demand is estimated to be 120 million litres, suggesting that there is still considerable potential for further growth in the sector

Key players in the dairy sector have invested heavily in processing plants, cold storage facilities, and enhanced distribution systems.

On the other hand ,the importation of high-quality heifers and the adoption of modern dairy farming practices have significantly boosted productivity.

Presidential Silage Programme (PSP), and the Livestock Recovery and Growth Plan (LRGP), have further supported this growth, bringing out a strong  commitment to revitalizing the agricultural sector.

However, the dairy industry faces ongoing challenges of persistent power and water shortages due to the El Nino imposed drought.

Inflation is also influencing  feed costs as raw materials prices are increased.

The threat of smuggled dairy products also poses significant risks to local producers.

‘’Future goals are to achieve 150 million litres of annual production.

Establish Zimbabwe as a competitive player in the Southern African dairy market’’ ,said Zimbabwe Economic Review.

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