The Central Region Milk Producers Association (CREMPA) has intensified efforts to boost milk production in the region, which currently produces 8 million litres annually.

This is far behind the 44 million litres produced in the southern region, according to CREMPA Board Chairperson Jessie Khonje-Lunguzi.

Speaking to Zodiak Online in Mchinji,  Lunguzi said the association has since procured 40 dairy cows worth K43 million to be distributed to four Milk Bulking Groups (MBGs) located in Mchinji and Dowa districts.

"Bua and Chiosya MBGs in Mchinji will each receive 10 cows, while Mponela and Gondoli MBGs in Dowa will also benefit equally to narrow the milk production gap," said Lunguzi.

She said the initiative is part of the Economic Empowerment and Financial Inclusion of Women and Youth Through Dairy Agri-business Project.

One of the beneficiaries, Salome Zulu from Kadula Village in the area of iNkosi Mlonyeni in Mchinji expressed hope that the livestock will contribute to improving milk production in the region.

"Apart from improving the region's milk production, the livestock will also help to uplift my household’s financial wellbeing," said Zulu.

Since 2024, CREMPA has spent about K70 million to procure 84 dairy cows for eight MBGs across Mchinji and Dowa with funding from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) through We Effect Malawi, according to CREMPA.