Online Reporter
Edgar Vhera-Specialist Writer – Agribusiness
RAW milk production has increased by five percent, from 95 million litres in 2024 to 100 million litres in the comparable period this year.
The sector aims to produce 130 million litres of milk by year-end.
Statistics released by the Dairy Services Unit recently show that raw milk output increased from 94 839 463 litres by October last year to 99 640 520 litres during the same period this year.
Zimbabwe Association of Dairy Farmers anticipates milk production to increase by the initially set target of 15 percent.
ZADF national chairman, Mr Edward Warambwa, said based on current production trends and the anticipated benefits of favourable weather conditions, the sector was confident of achieving the targeted 130 million litres of milk.
“If farmers implement effective management practices and take advantage of the improved grazing conditions, we may even exceed this target,” he said.
Mr Warambwa said the recent rains were vital for improving the quality and availability of pastures, which directly impact milk production.
“Increased forage quality allows cows to access better nutrition, leading to improved milk yields. Water availability is critical as cows require sufficient drinking water to produce milk effectively,” he said.
Improved pastures typically enhance the nutritional quality of the feed, which can lead to better milk composition, including higher fat and protein levels.
However, if pastures become overly abundant or if cows are not managed properly, there could be risks like tick-borne diseases or increased mastitis due to muddy conditions.
“Farmers must ensure that they maintain proper hygiene and cow comfort to ensure high-quality milk production.
“Beyond the existing Presidential Silage Input Scheme, Government must expand support to encompass medium and large-scale farmers,” Mr Warambwa said.
Government has come up with incentives to increase milk production.
Among the incentives are timely distribution of essential inputs, prioritising initiatives that advance research in dairy genetics, feed efficiency and disease management, facilitating access to affordable, dairy-specific funding, investing in farm infrastructure and adopting green energy solutions.
Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister, Vangelis Haritatos, recently said the fruits of the interventions were bearing fruit as production had increased over the years.
Dep Min Haritatos said an investment of US$71,4 million was required to procure breeding stock, processing equipment and cold chain facilities.
“Mechanisation (tractors, hay baling, cattle handling facilities, loading ramps), inputs production (stock feed, veterinary chemicals, vaccines, dipping and vaccination equipment, spray races, feeding and water troughs) and paddocks and fencing will also be funded from the same investment amount,” he said.
The country requires 131 million litres of milk for self-sufficiency, with any shortage augmented by imports of powdered milk and cheese.
