By John Kariuki
In a world grappling with food insecurity, malnutrition, and economic disparities, the MoreMilk Project by the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) emerges as a beacon of hope for small-scale dairy farmers and consumers in Africa and South Asia. This transformative initiative is not just about boosting milk production—it’s about empowering farmers, improving nutrition, and strengthening dairy markets to uplift millions from poverty and undernourishment.
Speaking on the impact of the project, Chairman Genesio Mugo emphasized that MoreMilk is more than just a dairy project—it is a lifeline for vulnerable communities, a catalyst for economic growth, and a driver of sustainable agriculture.
“Milk is one of the most powerful tools we have to fight malnutrition and poverty. Through the MoreMilk Project, we are not only increasing production but also ensuring that farmers have access to markets, consumers have access to safe and affordable milk, and women are empowered in the dairy sector. This initiative is shaping the future of dairy in Africa and beyond,” said Chairman Mugo.
The MoreMilk Project is revolutionizing dairy production by equipping small-scale farmers with improved breeds, better feeding techniques, and veterinary services to increase yields sustainably. By enhancing productivity, the project guarantees a steady milk supply while reducing the environmental footprint of dairy farming. Market access remains a major challenge for smallholder farmers, and MoreMilk is bridging this gap by developing efficient supply chains, enhancing food safety standards, and strengthening quality assurance mechanisms in both formal and informal markets.
Milk is a nutritional powerhouse, essential for child development and overall health, yet many vulnerable populations lack access to it. The MoreMilk Project is actively increasing awareness of milk’s benefits and ensuring its affordability for low-income households. Beyond nutrition, the project is championing gender equality by breaking barriers for women in the dairy sector, enabling them to own businesses, make financial decisions, and thrive as dairy entrepreneurs.
Policymakers play a critical role in ensuring the success of the dairy industry, and MoreMilk is actively engaging governments and stakeholders to push for regulations that support sustainable dairy farming, address food safety concerns, and mitigate risks associated with zoonotic diseases. By positioning dairy as an economic driver, the project is fostering policies that create an enabling environment for growth, investment, and innovation.
At its core, MoreMilk is building an inclusive dairy economy where smallholder farmers, informal traders, women, and youth benefit from the growing demand for milk. The project is tackling food safety, climate change, and economic disparities, ensuring that dairy remains a sustainable force for development. The impact is already evident, with smallholder farmers increasing their household incomes, vulnerable children accessing better nutrition, and dairy value chains becoming more efficient through strategic partnerships with governments and the private sector.
Chairman Genesio Mugo reaffirmed the project’s commitment to sustainability, equity, and economic empowerment.
“We are not just producing more milk—we are building resilient communities, healthier generations, and stronger economies. The success of MoreMilk lies in our ability to integrate innovation, collaboration, and sustainability into every aspect of dairy production and consumption,” he stated.
As the MoreMilk Project continues to expand, it holds immense potential to redefine dairy farming in Africa and South Asia, ensuring that milk remains not just a commodity, but a solution to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.