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From cows to camels

February 5, 2012

Kenya's dairy industry is switching from cows to camels for a reliable and plentiful supply of milk.

https://p.dw.com/p/13xOf
Camels in the desert, a mountain in teh background (Source: picture-alliance/dpa)
Image: picture-alliance/dpa

Global 3000 # ideasforacoolerworld # Kenia Kamelmilch # Langfassung # 05.02.2012

Project type: Adapting to climate change
Project goal: Production and processing of camel milk to secure incomes
Number of animals: More than one million camels across Kenya
Project size: Around 200 women are part of the production process

The cow is the most important farm animal in parts of Africa. But climate change is threatening the existence of the animal. Recurring droughts and extreme heat are making cows unable to produce essential milk. In Kenya, a group of farmers has found an alternative in camel milk. Unlike cows, camels can withstand long periods of extreme drought and still produce milk all year round. Some 200 women have already made the switch from cow to camel milk, which is believed to be healthier. The move has improved living conditions for many, especially because they are able to sell milk from their camels at a competitive price.

A film by Holger Trzeczak