Somalia Scales Up Camel Milk production, Aiming for export Market
Mogadishu, Somalia – Beder, a Somali company, is embarking on a important expansion of its camel milk processing and distribution network, fueled by growing domestic demand and aspirations to enter international markets. The initiative comes as the Somali government actively encourages investment in the livestock sector, recognizing the economic and nutritional potential of camel milk.
Hashi, the founder of Beder, announced plans to extend the company’s collection points beyond the capital, Mogadishu, and to provide training to pastoralists in remote regions.This training will focus on modern milking techniques and hygiene standards,aiming to increase the volume of safely processed milk available for sale. “If we can modernize how we raise camels and handle the milk, we can create jobs, improve nutrition, and build pride in our own local products,” Hashi stated.
Camel Milk: A Growing Industry
Camel milk is gaining recognition globally for its nutritional benefits, including higher levels of vitamin C, iron, and calcium compared to cow’s milk.It is also more easily digestible for some individuals due to its different protein structure. In the United Arab Emirates, camel milk is already utilized in the production of cosmetics and other value-added products.
Dr. Kasim Abdi moalim, Director of Animal Health at Somalia’s Ministry of livestock, emphasized the vast potential of the industry. “the benefits of camel milk are countless,” he said. “Somalia must catch up and develop the full value chain.” He highlighted recent government efforts to support the sector, including the enactment of a Dairy Act and the development of a comprehensive livestock sector development strategy. A master investment plan is currently under development to attract further capital.
Somalia possesses one of the largest camel populations in the world, estimated at around 7 million animals according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).The majority of these camels are owned by nomadic pastoralists, who traditionally rely on camel milk as a primary food source and source of income. However, limited infrastructure and a lack of modern processing facilities have historically hindered the industry’s growth.
Beder currently processes approximately 3,000 liters of camel milk daily, producing a range of products including fresh milk, yogurt, and ghee. The company sources milk from over 200 pastoralist families in the regions surrounding Mogadishu. Expansion plans include establishing new collection centers in the Galmudug and Hirshabelle states, and increasing processing capacity to 10,000 liters per day within the next two years.
The Somali government is actively seeking partnerships with international organizations and private investors to further develop the camel milk value chain. Potential areas for investment include cold chain infrastructure, processing equipment, and marketing initiatives. The long-term goal is to establish Somalia as a major exporter of high-quality camel milk products.
The steady rhythm of camel caravans,a hallmark of Somali tradition,now finds a modern echo in the growing demand for this nutritious and versatile product,signaling a promising future for Somalia’s camel milk industry.
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