Free State Department of Agriculture Engages Milk SA to Support Black Dairy Farmers

The Free State Department of Agriculture and Rural Development continues its efforts to strengthen agricultural development through strategic engagements with commodity organisations. Yesterday, MEC Mmabatho and HOD Mabilo held a focused meeting with Milk SA to address the challenges facing black dairy farmers in the province.

The discussions highlighted persistent constraints for emerging dairy producers. Key issues include high production input costs and rising expenses for transporting milk to processors and markets. These factors limit growth, reduce profitability, and threaten the sustainability of black-owned dairy operations.

The meeting concluded with two major resolutions aimed at providing targeted support:

1. Establishment of a Joint Task Team
   The Department and Milk SA will form a joint task team to explore practical support options for black dairy farmers. The team will assess the current challenges, identify opportunities, and submit recommendations by the end of January 2026.
2. Provincial Strategic Dairy Sector Meeting
   A provincial engagement will be held in mid-January 2026, bringing together all dairy farmers, including black emerging producers, commercial dairy operations, Milk SA, and relevant commodity organisations. The meeting will serve as a platform for collaborative planning, sharing solutions, and aligning efforts to strengthen the dairy sector in the Free State.

The Department reaffirmed its commitment to building strong partnerships, promoting transformation in the dairy sector, and ensuring sustainable support for farmers. These initiatives aim to enhance profitability, reduce operational barriers, and create a more inclusive and resilient dairy industry in the province.