Director of Omar Farms, highlighted the growing market for camel milk in Zambia, emphasizing its potential as a lucrative venture for both individuals and full-time farmers.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, Director of Omar Farms, Omar Hussan Fada, disclosed that currently, camel milk is priced at K200 per liter, with however production costs posing a challenge due to camels yielding significantly less milk compared to cows. Omar noted that despite being relatively unfamiliar in the country, camel milk is gaining popularity, particularly among the Somali and Kenyan communities.
“It is just here in Zambia where we haven’t had camels in the past, so it is not very famous when it comes to milk, but of course in some of the countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan and that side of Africa
camel milk is very famous and it is consumed more by people daily as compared to cow milk.” He stated.
He noted that while a cow can produce 30-40 liters daily, a camel provides only 4-5 liters. Omar added that the cost of maintaining and producing camel milk is high, but the animals are resilient and thrive in
harsh conditions, making them easier to care for.
With a current herd of 30 camels and plans for expansion, Omar Farms has experienced fast sales, with all 40 liters produced each day often sold out
in advance. Omar underscored the profitability of camel farming, projecting an average monthly income of K15,000 from a single camel, making it an attractive option for those looking to diversify their agricultural ventures. With an average monthly income of K15,000 from a single camel, this means on monthly income is about K450, 000 translating to 5.4 million (K5, 400, 000) per annum.
Omar, however, expressed a desire for other farmers to enter the market to increase competition and lower costs. He said in addition to camel milk, the farm also engages in camel meat production, which
is sold at K600 per kg.
