Dairy farmers across the Matabeleland region want milk processing plants built because existing ones have shut down, adding pressure to their already tight finances. Gilbert Moyo, who farms dairy in Umguza, says the region has 67 registered dairy producers of various sizes. He points out that areas with processing plants help farmers through heifer donations that boost milk output.
Dairy farming requires a heavy investment, with at least 15 heifers required to start serious production. The closest processing facility is far away in the Midlands province, harming local operations. Many farms have closed due to money problems, with workers losing their jobs. Moyo believes AFC Bank should return to its original purpose of supporting farmers with reasonable interest rates.
Despite these problems, Zimbabwe saw milk production jump 21 percent during early 2024 compared to 2023. National milk output has grown 170 percent from its lowest point of 37 million liters in 2009 to almost 100 million liters last year. This growth happened even with drought conditions affecting farm operations. The government lists dairy among its top ten priority industries for increased production of value-added milk products.
Dairy farming requires a heavy investment, with at least 15 heifers required to start serious production. The closest processing facility is far away in the Midlands province, harming local operations. Many farms have closed due to money problems, with workers losing their jobs. Moyo believes AFC Bank should return to its original purpose of supporting farmers with reasonable interest rates.
Despite these problems, Zimbabwe saw milk production jump 21 percent during early 2024 compared to 2023. National milk output has grown 170 percent from its lowest point of 37 million liters in 2009 to almost 100 million liters last year. This growth happened even with drought conditions affecting farm operations. The government lists dairy among its top ten priority industries for increased production of value-added milk products.
