Mr. Chairman!
Honorable Ministers: Governors and High Government Officials!
Excellences Ambassadors and Heads of UN Agencies!
Deans of Colleges!
Distinguished participants from: Teagasc, Desira, Vita, ASARECA, IFAD, Research Institutes and Higher Education
Invited guests!
Ladies and Gentlemen!
All protocols observed!
It is, indeed, my rare pleasure to warmly welcome you all, and especially those coming from outside the country, to participate in this maiden conference on Dairy value chain. This gathering marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to enhance and optimize the dairy industry.
The dairy sector plays a crucial role in our economy, providing livelihoods to millions of farmers and contributing to the overall growth and development of our nations. However, it is imperative that we recognize the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in this ever-evolving landscape.
Distinguished Participants!
Today, we have come together to discuss and explore ways to strengthen the dairy value chain. We must acknowledge that a robust value chain is the backbone of a thriving dairy industry. It encompasses every step, from production to processing, to distribution and consumption. Each link in this chain is vital and any weakness can have a ripple effect on the entire system.
This conference serves as a platform for stakeholders from various countries and various sectors to share their knowledge, experiences, and good practices. It is an opportunity to learn from each other, collaborate, and devise innovative solutions to the challenges we face.
One of the key areas of focus should be the adoption of advanced technologies and practices. The dairy industry has witnessed remarkable advancements in recent years, from automated milking systems to precision nutrition and genetic selection. Embracing these technologies can significantly improve productivity, efficiency, and sustainability throughout the value chain.
Furthermore, we must address the issue of market access and diversification. The demand for dairy products is growing both domestically and internationally. To capitalize on this opportunity, we need to explore new markets, develop value-added products, and establish strong supply chains that ensure quality and safety.
Distinguished Participants!
Another critical aspect is the welfare of our farmers. They are the backbone of the dairy industry, and their well-being is paramount. We must empower them with knowledge, training, and access to financial resources. By investing in their skills and capabilities, we can create a more resilient and prosperous dairy sector.
Collaboration and partnerships are also key to success. This conference provides a unique platform for stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society to come together, exchange ideas, and forge alliances. By working hand in hand, we can overcome challenges, leverage opportunities, and drive sustainable growth in the dairy value chain.
Distinguished Participants!
When it comes to the Eritrean context, we are a long way from satisfying our societies demand for milk and milk products. That is precisely the reason why we have organized this conference in order to learn from experience of others who have fared better. This we hope, will enable us to move faster and better to reach our goal of self-sufficiency and beyond.
In conclusion, I would like to express my gratitude to all the organizers, paper presenters, participants, and sponsors who have made this conference possible. Your commitment to the dairy industry is commendable, and I am confident that the discussions and outcomes of this conference will pave the way for a stronger, more resilient, and sustainable dairy value chain.
Finally, let me commend the organizing committee for a job well done.
Thank you, for your attention and I wish you all success in your deliberations.
21/02/24
