Moffat Mungazi
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
THE growth of Zimbabwe’s dairy sector is bringing renewed hope for rural development, improved livelihoods and national nutrition, Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza has said.
Addressing delegates during World Milk Day commemorations held in Mutare today, Minister Mugadza lauded the significant strides made in milk production after rising to 115 million litres in 2024, a 110 percent increase compared to a decade ago.
“This progress is not only boosting our national food security but also creating employment and income for thousands of families across the country,” said Minister Mugadza.
He said Government support through schemes such as the Presidential Fodder Programme and dairy mechanisation projects was empowering small-scale farmers, especially women and youth, to join the dairy value chain.
The World Milk Day event, themed ‘Let’s Celebrate the Power of Dairy’, highlighted how milk production is becoming a pillar for rural transformation.
It was also revealed that over 44 000 people are employed directly in the dairy sector, while thousands more benefit indirectly.
Mrs Hazel Mutimbira, a marketing assistant at Kefalos, said growing milk supply is helping local processors expand and offer more value-added products.
“More milk means more opportunities from cheese to yoghurt production. It is a win for farmers and consumers,” she said.
Minister Mugadza said the future of Zimbabwe’s dairy sector looked promising, with continued investment expected to improve yields, cut imports, and boost national pride in locally produced milk.
“Dairy farming is no longer just about nutrition, it is a livelihood,” he said.
Online Reporter