In a bid to modernize agriculture and tap into untapped resources, Somalia is turning to its most iconic animal — the camel — to spearhead a growing dairy industry. On the fringes of Mogadishu, new initiatives are transforming traditional herding into commercial production, with camel milk now being processed into yoghurt and sold in local markets.
Beder Farm: Pioneering a Camel Dairy Shift
At Beder Farm, camels are no longer just pastoral assets — they’re part of a carefully managed agricultural operation. The animals are monitored by veterinary professionals, kept on nutrient-optimized diets, and managed in a way that maximizes milk production.
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Reported Yield: Up to 10 litres of milk per camel daily — nearly double the amount produced under traditional pastoral systems.
Somalia’s First Camel Milk Yoghurt Plant
In a landmark step for Somali agribusiness, Beder Farm is now home to the country’s first dedicated camel milk yoghurt facility.
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The yoghurt is promoted as:
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A lower-lactose alternative to cow’s milk
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Richer in certain nutrients like Vitamin C, iron, and unsaturated fats
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It is already reaching urban markets, aiming to introduce camel dairy to city dwellers unfamiliar with the product.
Untapped Potential in a Camel-Rich Nation
With over 7 million camels, Somalia leads the world in camel population. Yet industry estimates show that only a small fraction of camel milk is currently entering formal supply chains.
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Challenges include:
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Lack of infrastructure for cold storage and transport
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Limited awareness among urban consumers
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Reliance on informal markets in rural areas
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Economic and Nutritional Impact
Experts believe the camel dairy industry could be transformative for Somalia’s economy and public health:
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Economic Upside:
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Creates jobs in rural and peri-urban areas
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Offers new income streams for pastoralists
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Nutritional Benefits:
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Provides a sustainable source of protein and micronutrients
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May be more digestible for lactose-intolerant populations
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The Road Ahead
While Somalia’s camel dairy industry is still in its infancy, initiatives like Beder Farm mark a promising shift from subsistence herding to value-added agribusiness. If scaled successfully, camel milk products could become a cornerstone of food security and rural development in the Horn of Africa.
This story is developing and will be updated as more commercial camel milk operations emerge across Somalia.
