ZIMBABWE has reduced reliance on imported dairy products, slashing its import bill by over 20% following a sustained increase in domestic milk production, officials have announced.
New figures show a notable rise in local output, with milk production climbing from 80 million litres in 2023 to 90 million litres this year — a 12,5% growth.
This boost has had a direct impact on the national purse, cutting the dairy import bill from over US$15 million in the first nine months of last year to below US$10 million for the same period in 2025.
The success is attributed to a government-led agricultural sector revival, focusing on improving farm productivity and supporting smallholder farmers.
Zimbabwe Dairy Industry Trust chairperson Themba Mutsvairo said the national target of 130 million litres per year was within sight.
“Increased output helps to reduce the national milk deficit, decreasing our reliance on imports,” Mutsvairo said.
“This not only puts Zimbabwe on course towards self-sufficiency but positions us to become a net exporter, contributing to the goal of an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.”
Greater milk availability in local markets is improving household nutrition and food security, particularly in rural areas where supply was once limited, he said.
“Increased local milk production directly improves nutrition and health outcomes, boosting per capita consumption and enhancing human development across our communities,” Mutsvairo explained.
He said with continued support from government and private sector partnerships, the dairy industry was poised for sustained growth.-newsda
