Approximately 4.6 million households in Tanzania rely on the dairy sector as a source of daily income, underlining its crucial role in supporting livelihoods and enhancing community wellbeing.
Despite its importance, stakeholders note that limited awareness among some communities about the benefits and uses of milk has kept consumption low, slowing the sector’s growth.
Speaking in Morogoro, George Msalya, Registrar of the Tanzania Dairy Board (TDB), emphasized that improving milk production and collection systems is key to boosting productivity and strengthening a sector that contributes about two percent to the national economy.
Chrisbel Swai, an officer at TDB’s Arusha centre, added that continuous public education is essential to dispel misconceptions about milk and encourage households to consume dairy products regularly.
Hamisi Athmani, a milk vendor in Morogoro, said milk consumption is gradually rising as communities gain more knowledge about its health benefits. He stressed that ongoing awareness campaigns are vital for increasing income for producers and traders alike.
Industry stakeholders believe that enhancing public understanding of milk’s value will drive consumption, strengthen household incomes, and support Tanzania’s broader economic growth.
