Tanzania’s Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Ambassador Dr Bashiru Ally, has issued six key directives to enhance the implementation of the Dairy Industry Transformation and Climate Change Adaptation Project, aiming to ensure efficiency, productivity, and timely delivery of benefits across the country.
Dr Bashiru gave the instructions during a project review meeting held at the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries headquarters in Mtumba, Dodoma.
He stressed the importance of prioritising access to high-quality dairy cattle breeds, water supply in project areas, accurate identification of beneficiaries, availability of animal feed, and comprehensive coordination among all livestock sector stakeholders.
“Coordinate carefully to ensure the availability of high-quality dairy cattle breeds, water, and feed so that this industry delivers tangible results,” Dr Bashiru said.
He also emphasised the use of modern technology to keep pace with global productivity standards and add value to the dairy sector.
Deputy Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Mr Ng’wasi Kamani, highlighted the need to involve experts in identifying opportunities for dairy goat farming among women and youth.
He said this approach would expand employment opportunities and enhance the participation of these groups in the dairy value chain.
Earlier, Dr Lazaro Kapella, Project Coordinator for the Dairy Industry Transformation and Climate Change Adaptation Project, reported that the project has a total budget of US$229.982 million and will be implemented over ten years.
Approximately 700,000 Tanzanians are expected to benefit, with activities covering eight regions on the mainland and five regions in Zanzibar.
Stephen Michael, Director of Production and Market Development at the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, noted that delays in fund disbursement from some donors had affected the timely implementation of certain project activities.
The project is funded by multiple partners, including IFAD, OPEC Fund, GCF, AFD, TADB, HI, the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania, and project beneficiaries.
It aims to modernise the dairy sector, improve productivity, and support climate-resilient practices to enhance livelihoods and economic growth.