Cameroon UNDP Backs Local Milk Processing Drive to Cut Imports

• The UNDP has pledged support for Cameroon's efforts to expand local milk processing.
• The partnership aims to strengthen the country's dairy value chain through technical assistance and succession planning.
• Cameroon spent CFAF40.6 billion on importing 20,596 tons of milk in 2023 alone.
• National milk production reached 176,618 tons in 2023, but domestic demand exceeds supply by over 120,000 tons annually.

The partnership aims to address structural weaknesses that hinder domestic dairy production.

A meeting between Dr. Taiga, Minister of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries, and Mathieu Ciowela, UNDP Resident Representative in Cameroon, on July 23, 2026, marked a significant step towards strengthening the country's dairy value chain. The discussions centered around technical assistance for project development, support for local milk processing, and succession planning within pastoral communities. This partnership aims to address structural weaknesses that hinder domestic dairy production. By doing so, it seeks to bridge the gap between milk production and consumption in Cameroon.

Cameroon's reliance on imported dairy products is a pressing concern, with data from the Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries and Animal Industries showing that national milk production reached 176,618 tons in 2023. However, domestic demand exceeds supply by over 120,000 tons annually, resulting in significant imports. The country spent CFAF40.6 billion on importing 20,596 tons of milk in 2023 alone, according to figures from the National Institute of Statistics cited by Business in Cameroon. This trend highlights the need for initiatives like the UNDP-backed local milk processing drive.

The implications of this initiative extend beyond the dairy industry, with potential impacts on agribusiness investments and supply chain management requirements. Lawyers advising clients on such investments should closely monitor the progress of this partnership. By supporting local milk processing, Cameroon can reduce its reliance on imports, promote economic growth, and improve food security. The success of this initiative will depend on effective implementation and collaboration between stakeholders.

Lawyers advising clients on agribusiness investments in Cameroon should monitor the progress of this initiative, as it may impact local sourcing and supply chain management requirements.

Source: Original reporting via UNDP Backs Cameroon’s Local Milk Processing Drive to Cut Imports