In Rwanda, dairy is crucial for rural development, poverty reduction and food security and nutrition. Dairy is a strategic commodity that offers a path out of poverty for Rwandan households with livestock, and for those who provide services and value addition to the supply chain. Despite progress in the dairy sector, challenges remain. Farmers have low milk productivity due to poor animal nutrition, and little access to extension and animal health services, and lack of access to improved animal breeds. Farmer organizations need collective action to market milk in bulk and access inputs and services. Farmers need better management skills for milk collection, processing and marketing. Farmers, especially women and youth, have limited access to credit to improve their farms and businesses, and key institutions need legal, regulatory and capacity strengthening efforts to encourage industry growth. This five-year project will improve milk quality and production capacity, while promoting stronger dairy sector policies. This project will be part of a larger government initiative pairing financial and non-financial services for farmers to build relationships with processors — reducing costs and incentivizing investment.
Farmers like Salafina, who is a mother of 6, is working hard to ensure that her family has a secure financial future with her successful dairy business.
Transcript
[music plays] At Heifer international, we believe in the power of people,
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The power to overcome, to flourish, to thrive.
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And we've seen it firsthand
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since 1944, we've watched more than 39 million people
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overcome even the greatest of obstacles
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and move themselves from poverty to power.
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When a family in poverty is given
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a goat or a cow, they're given more than an animal.
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It's an opportunity.
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It's a chance to start a business,
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put food on the table,
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and break the cycle of poverty forever.
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Heifer works with some of the world's poorest communities.
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We listen and learn about their problems,
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Work with them to create solutions,
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and introduce the tools
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and training they need for lasting success.
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Ultimately, we support people to stand strong in their own
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and discover their power.
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Because we know everyone has potential to thrive.
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All they need is a chance. Learn more today at heifer.org.
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