Taiz launches US$80M dairy, livestock project to boost local economy

YEMEN – Taiz has launched an economic empowerment initiative in Taiz’s Khadir district, aimed at strengthening dairy production and livestock development.

The US$80 million project, funded by the province’s Agricultural and Fisheries Projects and Initiatives Financing Unit, seeks to support productive families and reduce Yemen’s reliance on imported dairy products.

The initiative was inaugurated by Taiz’s acting governor, Ahmed Al-Masawi, alongside Hadi Quraya, head of the Water Resources Authority. 

According to officials, the project’s first phase involves distributing 550 productive cows, along with concentrated feed, to families across four districts: Khadir, Taiziyah, Maqbana, and Mawiya.

During the launch event, 45 cows were handed out as the initial installment, targeting 150 beneficiaries in Khadir alone.

 “This project is vital for developing livestock and localizing dairy production, which will help cut down our import costs,” Al-Masawi stated, emphasizing its role in economic self-sufficiency.

Abdul Waseem Al-Shamsi, the provincial undersecretary for development affairs, highlighted the project’s broader impact. 

“This is a crucial step toward enhancing local dairy production and reflects our commitment to empowering families to contribute to the economy,” he said.

 He noted that the initiative will eventually expand to all districts in Taiz, fostering widespread economic benefits.

A report by SABA indicates that the project prioritizes districts with suitable pastures, water resources, and livestock expertise. 

Mohammed Heba, director of the Agricultural and Fisheries Finance Unit, confirmed that the first phase will support 550 families, with plans for a second phase to cover additional areas. 

The initiative also focuses on enabling families to produce and market milk locally, addressing gaps in the domestic market.

Engineer Abdullah Al-Jundi, an official in the agricultural sector, emphasised the project’s importance for economic empowerment. 

He explained that it not only promotes dairy production but also strengthens livestock development, creating sustainable income sources for families. 

Local communities have welcomed the initiative, seeing it as a pathway to financial stability. By equipping families with resources and expertise, the project aims to transform Taiz into a hub for dairy production, reducing dependency on external markets.

 As the first phase progresses, officials remain optimistic about its potential to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods across the province.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE