The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Food and Agricultural Extension Institute (FAREI), is supporting smallholder farmers in Mauritius to adopt sustainable dairy goat production practices. The initiative aims to improve nutrition, diversify income sources, and create economic opportunities for rural communities. Farmers receive technical guidance, training, and resources to produce safe, high-quality goat milk and value-added products such as cosmetics, allowing them to access new markets and strengthen resilience.
Goat milk, traditionally undervalued in Mauritius despite its health and medicinal benefits, is now being promoted through innovative approaches. FAO introduced artificial insemination techniques for goats—the first of its kind in the country—to improve genetics, productivity, and milk quality. Farmers also participate in Farmers Field Schools and hands-on training sessions to learn advanced milk processing techniques and hygiene standards. Knowledge-sharing platforms and partnerships with cosmetic enterprises enable farmers to create products such as soaps and wellness items, expanding income opportunities beyond traditional dairy.
The project has empowered small-scale producers and local businesses, including enterprises like JYVT Wellness and Health Centre, to leverage goat milk for entrepreneurial ventures. By combining modern breeding techniques with business training, the initiative enhances food security, nutrition, and rural economic empowerment. Continued investment in training, partnerships, and supportive policies will be essential to scale the model nationwide, ensuring the long-term sustainability and resilience of Mauritius’ dairy goat sector.
