Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
ZIMBABWE’S dairy industry continues to register impressive growth, with more than 50 million litres of milk produced during the first five months of the year, up from approximately 46 million litres recorded during the same period in 2025.
The increase has strengthened prospects for the country to achieve dairy self-sufficiency, while reducing the import bill for milk and related products.
Production figures for the January to May period indicate a seven percent increase in output compared to the corresponding period last year.
Zimbabwe Association of Dairy Farmers Policy Officer, Ms Antonnette Chingwe, said the sector remains firmly on course to achieve sustained growth, with stakeholders now focusing on maximising opportunities under the country’s self-sufficiency drive.
“Statistics at hand show that the journey towards growth in overall milk production volumes is on course. What we need to do is focus on growth. Remember, the growth trajectory is on track, so it is about taking the existing opportunities into growth, driven by our self-sufficiency agenda,” she said.
Consumers have also noted the increased availability of locally produced dairy products on the market, a development attributed to collaborative efforts by the government, private sector and development partners in revitalising the dairy industry.
“I have bought milk, and it is readily available on the shelves. I just hope this stability will continue and provide the basis for further growth,” consumer Mr Humphrey Gatsi said.
“It is all about the stable economic conditions that are creating a pathway for increased production of the commodity. Going forward, such interventions need to continue, as they provide the foundation for sustainable development across the entire dairy value chain,” another consumer, Mr Owenny Mutoko, said.
The dairy sector is projecting a 10 percent increase in commercial milk output this year, with production expected to exceed 130 million litres, compared to 120 million litres recorded in 2025.
