Teagasc supported dairy project helps Tanzanian farmers boost milk production
A Teagasc supported dairy development project in Tanzania has helped thousands of smallholder farmers improve milk production, enhance farm resilience and increase household incomes.
The ‘Maziwa Faida’ project, meaning ‘successful dairy’, is a €3 million co-operation and development initiative funded by the Government of Ireland through the Embassy of Ireland in Tanzania. Established in 2021 through Sustainable Food Systems Ireland (SFSI), the project focused on developing sustainable dairy production solutions in Tanzania, particularly in the Tanga region and its surrounds.
Led by Dr. Padraig French, Teagasc and Dr. Zabron Nziku, Tanzania Livestock Research Institute (TALIRI) with support from Dr. Sizya Lugeye, both organisations have worked closely with local partners, including the Ministry of Livestock, LITA agricultural college, extension services and public and private stakeholders, to deliver forage-focused research and outreach.
The project has supported investment in research farm infrastructure, including new forage trials, fencing, water systems, laboratories and computers. Large-scale demonstration and outreach facilities have also been developed and were recently visited by more than 600 stakeholders during a dairy open day.
To date, 3,600 smallholder dairy farmers and 40 extension officers have participated in the project. Additionally, during the project, eight TALIRI staff were also supported to complete a Master’s programme in co-operation with Sokoine University, and some 100 hectares of improved forages, suitable for the region, have been planted.
Mr Liam Herlihy, Chairperson of the Teagasc Authority, addressing the TALIRI Tanga dairy open day
Participating farmers have reported encouraging results. Where forage can be provided to cows throughout the full season including periods of drought (from hay or silage) instead of depending on rough forages cut from common land, milk production can increase by over 50%, helping boost system resilience and household income.
A Teagasc and Sustainable Food Systems Ireland delegation visited the project from June 8 to 13, 2026. The Teagasc delegation comprised of Mr. Liam Herilhy, Chairperson of the Teagasc Authority, Dr. Padraig French, Head of Livestock Systems Department at Teagasc, and Mr. Paul Maher, Head of International Relations and Corporate Strategy, Teagasc.
Read more about the Maziwa Faida project and the visit here.
