Govt. calls for increased production in the Diary Industry

  Government says  that the dairy industry has the capacity to contribute significantly to the country’s economic growth.

And Agriculture Consultative Forum (ACF) Chairperson Matthews Ngosa noted that the Dairy Association of Zambia can contribute greatly to the country’s Growth Domestic Product (GDP) and job creation.

Agriculture and Livestock Minister Bob Sichinga says this why the Patriotic Front (PF) government is committed to improving the operating environment of the industry.

Mr Sichinga said that the value chain of the dairy products must increase and stakeholders should participate in creating market opportunities for the industry.

ZANIS reports that the minister said this when he officiated at the Dairy Association of Zambia 2013 – 2016 Strategic Plan Launch in Lusaka today.

He stated that there is no institution that is expected to deliver without a proper strategic plan.

He said the PF government recognises dairy farming not only for poverty reduction but as a business venture as well.

Mr. Sichinga called on the stakeholders to participate in the growth of the dairy industry adding that the 21 milk processors in the country only utilises 59% of the installed capacity and only about 15% of the dairy potential is currently tapped in the country.

“  I urge you stakeholders to be free and participate in the growth of the dairy industry. The current 21 milk processors in the country only utilises 59% of the installed capacity and only about 15% of the dairy potential is currently tapped in the country, “ he said.

He also noted that there is less milk been delivered by farmers while noting that if the country can be producing more than the consumption the remaining milk can be dried and be sold.

Mr. Sichinga said farmers in the dairy industry need to be educated about dairy farming being a business compared to consumption alone.

He said planning and implementation are cardinal in any development and called on all stakeholders to work with government to effectively implement its policies.

Mr. Sichinga said government will carefully look at the strategic plan for its implementation and will continue looking forward to information from the Association on how business the industry can be stimulated and sustained.

And Agriculture Consultative Forum Chairperson Matthews Ngosa noted that the Dairy Association of Zambia can contribute greatly to the country’s Growth Domestic Product (GDP) and job creation.

Mr. Ngosa said the forum will continue to work closely with the Association to help build on the capacity of the dairy industry.