Rwandan dairy farmers have reason to celebrate after the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MINICOM) announced a substantial increase in milk prices.
The decision, made on July 9, 2024, will see farmers delivering milk to collection centers receive 400 Rwandan Francs (Frw) per liter, a 33% increase from the previous rate of 300 Frw.
This decision comes after a collaborative effort by MINICOM, the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources, and other stakeholders. The new pricing structure aims to improve the livelihoods of dairy farmers and incentivize further production within the dairy sector.
Milk consumers will also see a slight price adjustment, with the cost of one liter of milk at collection centers set at 432 Frw. The existing arrangements for transporting milk to processing plants remain unchanged.
MINICOM emphasized that farmers who have already secured buyers offering a higher price can continue those arrangements. The Ministry will be working with relevant authorities to ensure these new prices are implemented effectively throughout the country.
This news is a welcome development as most dairy farmers were interviewed by Rwanda Dispatch. They noted that the news offers a glimmer of hope because the increased profit margin will help them navigate the dry season’s challenges and potentially lead to a more sustainable future for the dairy sector.
