Ugandan dairy farmers could benefit from modern milking equipment and better access to markets following a new partnership between Trade for Jobs Uganda and Swedish dairy technology firm DeLaval.
The two organisations signed a Letter of Intent to improve milk quality, increase production and create jobs across Uganda's dairy industry.
The agreement seeks to address challenges that continue to affect farmers despite a sharp rise in national milk production.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Uganda's annual milk output doubled from 2.7 billion litres in 2020 to 5.4 billion litres in 2024.
However, many farmers still lack modern milking machines, cooling equipment and proper storage facilities. Limited access to financing also prevents dairy businesses from investing in new technology.
The agreement was signed during a visit to Sight Farm Namulonge in Gayaza, Wakiso District.
Sweden's Ambassador to Uganda, Anna-Maria Olsson, attended the event alongside a Swedish delegation.
The visitors inspected DeLaval's milking technology and spoke to farmers about the costs and challenges of adopting modern equipment.
Under the arrangement, DeLaval will provide technical expertise and promote modern milking and cooling systems.
Trade for Jobs Uganda will train farmers, milk collectors and other businesses in milk handling, storage and quality management.
The organisations will also explore financing options to help farmers acquire equipment and improve their operations.
They intend to work with other industry players to promote payment systems that reward farmers for producing quality milk.
The partnership could also support improvements in dairy regulations and strengthen cooperation between farmers, processors and technology suppliers.
Fernando Martinez Cure, the chief technical adviser at Trade for Jobs Uganda, said the dairy industry has the potential to create more jobs if farmers gain better access to technology, investment and markets.
"Uganda’s dairy sector has significant potential to generate more and better jobs, but realising this potential requires stronger connections between technology, investment and markets," he said.
Sherri Clark, DeLaval's market development manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, said modern equipment and improved farming practices could help Uganda produce better-quality milk.
"Improving milk quality and productivity starts with access to appropriate technologies and stronger farming practices," she said.
Clark said the company would work with local businesses to demonstrate the benefits of modern milking and cooling equipment.
Ambassador Olsson said the initiative reflects Sweden's commitment to strengthening trade and private-sector development in Uganda.
"DeLaval’s engagement highlights how Swedish innovation can contribute to Uganda’s dairy sector while strengthening commercial partnerships and advancing long-term development," she said.
The agreement sets out areas for future cooperation rather than specific investment commitments.
Both organisations will now identify practical projects that could encourage farmers to adopt new technology, reduce milk losses and strengthen Uganda's position in the dairy market.
The initiative also seeks to increase farmer earnings and create employment opportunities along the dairy value chain.
