Nestle has joined forces with the Independent Development Trust (IDT) to develop quality and quantity of milk production by black dairy farmers in South Africa.

The two-year partnership will involve 40 dairy farmers in the Thabo Mofutsanuane district and will see collaboration on a range of initiatives including attempts to access infrastructure such as electricity, water and roads. Named Nestl© Emerging Farmer Initiative, the project will also include steps to provide technical resources and enterprise development skills.

Thembi Mwedamutswu, chief executive of IDT, says the partnership would benefit the second economy. “We are excited at the potential this project presents for a meaningful public-private partnership. The move is in line with the governments agricultural sector plan.”

“The IDT is the ideal partner,” says Yves Manghardt, Nestle’s managing director. “They have 16 years experience in development and an established track record in supporting clients and partners.”