Somalia’s Camel Milk Revolution: From Tradition to a Modern Dairy Industry
Somalia is experiencing an agricultural transformation as camel milk production modernizes, offering economic opportunities and nutritional benefits in a nation historically reliant on pastoralist traditions.
Demand for camel milk is surging across Somalia, fueled by entrepreneurs recognizing the untapped potential of this traditional resource. The nation boasts over 7 million camels – more than any other country globally – yet, until recently, only a small fraction of their milk reached urban consumers. Now, a new generation of dairies, like Beder Camel Farm, is changing that landscape.
Pioneering Modern Camel Farming
On a Wednesday morning in mid-June, The Associated Press visited Beder Camel Farm, located on the outskirts of Mogadishu. The farm exemplifies this shift, with dozens of camels grazing in sandy paddocks and workers meticulously milking the animals in a sanitized environment.
“Somalis take pride in their heritage of raising camels. However, the way camels are raised has changed significantly over time,” explained Dr. Abdirisak Mire Hashi, a veterinarian and the farm’s manager. For Hashi, the modernization isn’t simply about profit; it’s about honoring Somali heritage while embracing progress.
Beder Camel Farm has dramatically increased milk production, with each camel now yielding up to 10 liters (2.6 gallons) daily – double the output of traditional herding methods. This increase is attributed to investments in veterinary care, improved feed, and modern milking practices. Camels receive regular veterinary checkups, nutritional supplements, and are grazed on scientifically blended fodder, a departure from the traditional nomadic lifestyle.
A Growing Market and Local Employment
Established in 2006, Beder Camel Farm currently holds approximately 40% of the Somali camel milk market share. “We were among the first to establish this kind of farm back in 2006, when very few people even knew about commercial camel milk production,” said Jama Omar, CEO of Beder Camel Farm. The farm currently employs nearly 200 full-time staff, with additional seasonal workers hired during peak periods.
The farm’s most significant innovation is its yogurt factory – the first in Somalia dedicated to processing camel milk into yogurt. Workers in hygienic conditions oversee stainless steel vats where fresh milk is cultured and packaged under the Beder brand, now available in supermarkets across Mogadishu.
Nutritional Benefits and Public Health Impact
Camel milk yogurt is gaining popularity not only as a novelty but also for its nutritional advantages. Nelson Njoki Githu, a Kenyan-born food engineer overseeing production, highlighted that camel milk has lower lactose levels than cow’s milk, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance. Furthermore, it boasts higher levels of vitamin C, iron, and zinc.
“It is rich in magnesium and calcium, which support bone health. Additionally, it contains vitamins B12, C, and D. It also includes friendly bacteria known as probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health,” noted Dr. Yahye Sholle, a nutritionist, emphasizing the public health benefits in a country where malnutrition remains a challenge.
Scaling Up and Government Support
Beder Camel Farm plans to expand its network of collection points beyond Mogadishu and provide training to pastoralists in remote areas on modern milking and hygiene practices. “If we can modernize how we raise camels and handle the milk, we can create jobs, improve nutrition, and build pride in our own local products,” Hashi stated.
The Somali government is actively encouraging further investment in the industry. “The benefits of camel milk are countless,” said Dr. Kasim Abdi Moalim, Director of Animal Health at Somalia’s Ministry of Livestock. “In countries like the UAE, camel milk is also used for cosmetics. Somalia must catch up and develop the full value chain.” The government has established a Dairy Act, a livestock sector development strategy, and is currently developing a master investment plan.
As a line of camels stretches into the golden afternoon light, their deliberate pace serves as a reminder that progress in Somalia often unfolds at the rhythm of tradition – a slow but unwavering journey. From ancient caravans to modern supermarket shelves, the Somali camel’s story continues, one cup at a time.
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