Uganda's Dairy Industry in 2023

Uganda stands out as a major player in East Africa's dairy sector, characterized by substantial investments, robust milk production, and active trade in dairy products. Here's an in-depth look at the current state of the dairy industry in Uganda.

Dairy Cattle Population

As of 2023, Uganda is home to approximately 2.5 million dairy cattle. These cattle are integral to the country's dairy production, offering a steady supply of milk.

Milk Production

Uganda's annual milk production is estimated at 2.4 billion liters. This significant volume underscores the country's capacity to meet its domestic demand and maintain a strong dairy processing industry.

Milk Processing

Uganda processes approximately 800 million liters of milk annually. The processing sector includes various dairy products such as pasteurized milk, yogurt, and cheese.

Cheese Production

Cheese production in Uganda totals around 15,000 metric tons per year. Key varieties include Gouda, cheddar, and mozzarella, catering to both local consumption and export markets.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

The country produces an estimated 10,000 metric tons of milk powder and 5,000 metric tons of whey annually. These products are essential for long-term storage and export purposes.

Key Dairy Enterprises

• Brookside Dairy Limited: A prominent player in East Africa's dairy industry with extensive operations in Uganda.
• Jesa Farm Dairy: Known for its high-quality dairy products including milk, cheese, and yogurt.
• Dairy Corporation Limited: One of Uganda's oldest and largest dairy processors, providing a wide range of dairy products.

Major Dairy Farms

• Farm Uganda: A leading dairy farm known for its high milk yield and quality breeding practices.
• Kampala Dairy Farm: Supplies raw milk to various processing plants and local markets.
• Hoima Farms: Focuses on sustainable dairy farming practices and contributes significantly to regional milk production.

Export of Dairy Products

Uganda exports around 100 million liters of milk and dairy products annually, reaching markets in neighboring countries such as Kenya, Rwanda, and South Sudan.

Import of Dairy Products

Uganda imports approximately 30 million liters of dairy products each year, mainly specialized products not widely produced locally.

Significant Dairy Market Events

In 2023, a major milestone was achieved with the announcement of a $35 million investment aimed at enhancing Uganda's dairy sector and strengthening food security. This investment is expected to modernize dairy farms, improve milk processing facilities, and expand export capabilities, positioning Uganda as a cornerstone of East Africa's dairy industry.

Sources: Uganda Dairy Development Authority, East African Dairy Trade Reports, Ministry of Agriculture, Uganda.

Modified: 2025/04/24

---