Zimbabwe’s Milk Production Climbs 7 Percent as Nation Edges Closer to Self-Sufficiency

Zimbabwe is edging closer to achieving national milk self-sufficiency after commercial milk production increased by seven percent during the first four months of 2026, signalling continued recovery and expansion within the country’s dairy sector.

Latest industry figures show that commercial milk output rose to 40 million litres between January and April this year, up from 38 million litres recorded during the same period in 2025, reflecting sustained momentum in dairy production.

Monthly performance figures indicate strong growth across the period, with January production rising by nine percent to 10.6 million litres. February output increased by eight percent to 9.4 million litres, while March recorded a six percent rise to 10.2 million litres. April production also posted gains, increasing five percent to 10.1 million litres.

The upward trajectory comes as the Government intensifies efforts to revitalise the dairy industry through strategic interventions aimed at expanding the national herd, improving feed availability and strengthening support for commercial dairy farmers.

Authorities are targeting annual commercial milk production exceeding 200 million litres by 2030, with 2026 projected to mark a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s journey toward milk self-sufficiency. Since 2017, the sector has registered cumulative growth of 129 percent, underscoring the impact of ongoing recovery initiatives and investment in dairy production.

However, despite the encouraging rise in domestic output, dairy imports increased sharply by 72 percent to US$8.7 million during the first four months of the year. Industry observers attribute the surge to growing consumer demand, expanding processing capacity and rising disposable incomes, which continue to place pressure on local supply.

The continued growth in milk production reflects renewed confidence in Zimbabwe’s dairy sector, with stakeholders optimistic that sustained investment and policy support could soon position the country to fully meet domestic demand while reducing reliance on imports.

By Witness A Phiri