Zambian milk production increases

Growth in the Zambian dairy industry is being underpinned by a government school milk programme, and raw milk production has increased slightly, according to reports from FAO Dairy Outlook. This is due to a rising number of both dairy farmers and collection centres. Companies such as Parmalat and Varum beverage have also expanded collection centres.

The Dairy Association of Zambia figures that 55 million litres of raw milk were produced between January and October 2013, up from 40 million litres for the same period in 2012.

Milk consumption is still quite low, around 19 litres per per person per annum. The World Health Organisation recommends an annual intake of 200 litres per person. 

Through supplying milk, apart from a regular income, many poor people are receiving additional benefits, including: assistance in setting up bank accounts (which the vast majority farmers do not have); access to veterinary services; and supplies of medicines and other inputs.

Another benefit is for milk quality. The milk is closely monitored at the collection centre (and by the dairy companies), so this has resulted in a substantial increase in quality ­ lower bacteria counts and fewer instances of antibiotics ­ and reduced adulteration with water.