Mbeya is among eight regions set to benefit from a government-led initiative by the Tanzania Dairy Board, aiming to increase milk consumption in schools. This program seeks to address stunting and enhance students' academic performance by reaching 100,000 students in 140 primary schools across the country, including four in Mbeya.

According to the board’s Acting Marketing Manager, Joseph Semu, the initiative currently covers eight regions, with plans to expand nationwide. Semu highlighted that the program involves small-scale milk processors in each region to facilitate implementation.

Veterinarian Dr Samora Mshang’a from Mbeya emphasized efforts to modernize dairy farming practices to ensure the production of high-quality milk for schools. Collaborating with the Tanzania Dairy Board, they aim to educate farmers on improving milk production standards to safeguard children's health.

In Mbeya, Rungwe and Busoleko councils produce an average of 240,000 liters of milk daily, supporting the government’s goal to provide every student with a daily cup of milk.

Acting Regional Nutrition Officer Lightness Shibone added that they continue to engage the community on the benefits of school milk programs to enhance students' academic understanding and reduce malnutrition.

Sahadom Dairy processor Anath Kombeson noted the positive response, with about 50 percent of student’s now consuming milk daily for health benefits. Student Tubagile Festo shared that drinking milk has helped with concentration in class and urged the government to increase funding for milk supplies, especially for students with special needs.