The dairy sector in Uganda has responded positively to agricultural sector liberalisation policies that took effect in the 1990s with total national milk production growing from 460 million litres in 1990 to 1.6 billion litres in 2011, with per capita milk consumption growing from 16 litres in 1986 to 58 litres by 2010.
A variety of dairy products that were previously imported are now being produced locally in the country.
In Uganda Locally, average consumption per person stands at about 52 litres annually, if compared to Kenya, with a consumption rate of 120 litres, is so low.
While commemorating the International Women’s Day, Fresh Dairy Uganda in conjunction with MamaTendo Foundation held a Breakfast meeting themed ‘Motherhood and the modern mum’ which aimed at empowering over 200 women with better skills of coping with the challenges that come with balancing today’s modern Work, Life and Family.
Vincent Omoth Marketing Manager Fresh Dairy Uganda, the producers of Fresh Dairy products noted that that while modern mothers are busy trying to find a balance between their work, life and families, they should always look out for the health and nutritional benefits in the dairy products that their respective families consume.
To this end, Fresh Dairy Uganda has partnered with Mama Tendo Foundation to reach out to as many modern mothers as possible regarding the health and nutritional benefits of taking milk products.’
Caroline Muchobia, Nutritionist Fresh Dairy Uganda said, ‘The health benefits of taking Fresh Dairy products include increased bone strength, smoother skin, stronger immune system, prevention of illnesses such as hypertension, dental decay, dehydration, respiratory problems, obesity, osteoporosis and even some forms of cancer. The beneficial health nutrients obtained from taking Fresh Dairy products that in turn aid in the prevention of a number of chronic ailments include Calcium which is important for children and stronger teeth, Vitamin D, Protein, Phosphorous, Magnesium, Potassium, Vitamin B 12 and Zinc among others.
Omoth further says, ‘We do not add any additives or preservatives to our Fresh Dairy products making them a safe quick preference for the modern mum that is busy and yet still needs quality assurance for the milk that her family is taking.’
Awino Joseph, Sales General Manager Fresh Dairy said, ‘Currently, Fresh Dairy handles over 300,000 litres of fresh milk every day, supports over 25,000 farmers and distributes milk products to over 20,000 retailers countrywide.’
Catherine Ruhweza, Executive Director Mama Tendo Foundation said, ‘Mama Tendo Foundation is a faith based charity that focuses on family, child upbringing and maternal health. The organization is involved in a number of maternal and child survival projects and has partnered with Fresh Dairy to reach out to host today’s Breakfast meeting intended to empower modern mothers on balancing work, life and family.
Among the key speakers for the event were seasoned mother Dr. Miria Matembe and Dr. Ruth Senyonyi, Uganda’s first professional counselor who both led engaging and empowering sessions on modern motherhood.
Omoth concluded by noting that Fresh Dairy Uganda has a lot in store for women and more especially mothers this year, and will from time to time call upon them for participation.
