The IDF Regional Dairy Conference Africa 2026 took place from 31 March to 2 April 2026 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, gathering policymakers, dairy farmers, processors, industry leaders, researchers and development partners together from across Africa and beyond.
Co‑hosted by FIL-IDF and the Zimbabwe Dairy Industry Trust (ZDIT), in collaboration with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development of Zimbabwe, the conference focused on the theme “Driving Dairy Competitiveness and Sustainability in Africa and Beyond.” Discussions highlighted the strategic role of dairy in nutrition, food security, rural livelihoods and economic development.
Across three days, participants engaged in high‑level panel discussions, keynote presentations, exhibitions and networking, addressing topics such as climate‑smart dairy production, animal health and welfare, value addition, market access, trade and financing for dairy enterprises. The conference also underscored the importance of regional collaboration, investment and science‑based policy to unlock the full potential of Africa’s dairy sector.
The event reinforced dairy’s central role in building resilient and inclusive food systems and strengthened dialogue and partnerships to support sustainable growth across the continent.
