Tanzania’s Dairy Industry Booms as Local Milk Production Surpasses 100 Million Litres
Dodoma, May 14, 2026 — Tanzania’s dairy sector is experiencing significant growth, with domestic milk processing reaching a record 101.4 million litres in the past year, valued at 152.2 billion Tanzanian shillings. The announcement was made by Livestock and Fisheries Minister Bashiru Ally Kakurwa during his budget presentation in Parliament today.
The government’s push to strengthen local dairy production has led to a noticeable decline in milk imports. Official data shows that milk import permits dropped from 630 in the 2024/2025 fiscal year to 609 in 2025/2026, with volumes shrinking from 11.5 million litres to 10 million litres. The reduced reliance on foreign milk has saved the country billions, with import costs falling from 22.96 billion shillings to 21.62 billion shillings.
Growing Demand for Local Dairy
Minister Kakurwa attributed the shift to improved investment policies and better support for domestic producers. “Our efforts to enhance the dairy industry are paying off,” he said. “More Tanzanians are consuming locally processed milk, reducing our dependence on imports.”
The numbers support his claim. Per capita milk consumption rose from 68.7 litres in 2024/2025 to 70.5 litres in 2025/2026—a 2.6% increase. The Tanzania Dairy Board’s regulatory oversight has played a key role in ensuring quality and boosting consumer confidence.
Meat and Egg Consumption Also on the Rise
Beyond dairy, Tanzanians are consuming more protein-rich foods. Annual meat intake per person climbed from 17.6 kg to 18.4 kg, while egg consumption jumped from 119 to 132 eggs per capita. The minister highlighted these figures as indicators of improved nutrition and economic progress.
What’s Next for Tanzania’s Livestock Sector?
With the 2026/2027 budget now under discussion, the government aims to further expand livestock and fisheries production. Key priorities include modernizing dairy farms, increasing cold storage facilities, and supporting small-scale farmers to meet rising demand.
As Tanzania moves toward greater food self-sufficiency, the dairy industry’s success serves as a model for other agricultural sectors. For now, consumers can expect more high-quality, locally sourced milk on their tables—and fewer imports on store shelves.
— Reported by Nexio News
