Milk production and milk processing is a sector that is still in its infancy in Burkina Faso, where information is scanty and support hard to come by. Due to the low investment in milk production, demand in both rural and urban areas remains high and most of the demand is met through imports of milk products.
Studies from Burkina Faso also show that sufficient milk consumption is still low estimated at an average of 11.2 litres per person per year in urban areas. In addition, the growth in the urban population over the years has resulted in higher demand for milk and other dairy products. The main sources of milk are sheep, goats and Zebu cattle.
Eliminating hunger and malnutrition
To address the situation, a new programme on milk production has been launched in Ouagadougou, in Burkina Faso aiming to fight malnutrition that affects a large part of the population. During the launching of the programme, small-scale farmers and associations were invited to a workshop to share knowledge and mobilise action towards improving milk production.
The programme, implemented in partnership with UN Women and the National Union of Small Dairy Industries and Milk Producers (UMPL), is considered a pilot aimed to support small and medium scale milk producers in Burkina Faso. The workshop presented the content of the project to participants and developed a consensual roadmap with all stakeholders in its implementation.
“This is an important initiative which will go a long way in strengthening the efforts of dairy farmers and contribute to the elimination of hunger and malnutrition”, said Madame Marie Laetitia Kayisire, the UN Women program specialist for economic empowerment of women.
It is expected that by November 2013, a significant increase in milk production will be witnessed at least by 25% over a period of 2 years. In addition, 90% of women who engage in dairy production, trained and supported through the programme will be in a position to improve the economic management of their investments.
Dairy farmers exchange knowledge during training held in Ouagadougou.
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