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A $500 million market opportunity in Algeria has been identified, and partnerships with Algerian experts are underway. Algeria is keen on importing milk from Uganda, with officials approving the venture. Uganda, producing 3.85 million litres of milk while consuming 800 million litres, is exploring avenues like exports and processing surplus milk.

A delegation from Algeria has conducted an assessment in Uganda to evaluate the quality and quantity of the country’s milk and milk products. Algeria is expressing interest in importing milk from Uganda, and officials from the Dairy Development Authority (DDA) have confirmed their approval for the imports.

According to the DDA, Uganda’s current milk production stands at 3.85 million litres, with consumption at 800 million litres, creating a surplus that can be utilized through increased local consumption, exports, and processing into various products like yogurt, chocolates, casein, and powder.

Addressing concerns about aflatoxins in Uganda’s milk products, Agnes Audax Baguma, the acting director of technical services at DDA, assured Ugandans that the milk is free from aflatoxins. Baguma highlighted a potential $500 million market for milk in Algeria and emphasized that Uganda’s milk is safe and free from toxins, with over 90% of cows consuming feeds from the natural environment.

Baguma mentioned that a delegation of experts from Algeria has already established partnerships with Ugandan milk producers, paving the way for Uganda to supply powder milk to Algeria. Tests conducted on Uganda’s milk indicated no toxins, particularly mycotoxin D1, and Baguma emphasized ongoing monitoring with mobile testing units and kits.

Dr. David Lubega, the principal dairy development officer of DDA, addressed concerns about foot and mouth disease affecting Uganda’s milk products, stating that the Algerians verified the situation, alleviating fears. Additionally, Baguma responded to MPs’ concerns about low farm gate prices, noting that DDA is working on improving milk quality by teaching farmers water harvesting techniques, providing tractors, pasture seeds, and milk cans.

Deputy committee chair Linda Agnes Auma emphasized the need to enhance farming in Uganda to boost incomes for domestic and commercial farmers. Anthony Alden Esenu proposed direct market access for Ugandan milk producers to Algeria to maximize benefits and maintain high production standards.