One Health training strengthens milk safety in Tanzania's dairy sector 

These challenges increase the risk of microbial contamination and the transmission of zoonotic diseases, affecting both public health and the economic sustainability of the dairy value chain.

To address these challenges, the Government of Norway, through the Norwegian Veterinary Institute, supported a collaborative One Health (OH) capacity-building programme focused on improving milk safety and strengthening zoonoses management in Tanzania’s dairy sector. The programme targeted key value chain actors, including dairy farmers, milk collection centre (MCC) attendants, small-scale milk processors, and livestock field officers. 

The training was conducted between May 11 and 27, 2026, and was delivered by a multidisciplinary team of experts from the Tanzania Veterinary Laboratory Agency (TVLA), Tanzania Dairy Board (TDB), Tanzania Livestock Research Institute (TALIRI), and Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA).

A total of 66 participants from the Tanga and Mbeya regions took part in the six-day training programme, including 32 dairy farmers, 14 Milk Collection Centre (MCC) attendants, 10 small-scale milk processors, and 10 livestock field officers. 

Using a practical “sandwich” training approach that combined classroom instruction with hands-on field experience, participants were equipped with knowledge and practical skills in One Health principles, zoonotic disease management, foodborne pathogens, milk hygiene and quality assurance, rapid milk testing methods, milk sampling, packaging, preservation and shipment procedures, antimicrobial residue monitoring, risk mapping and climate-smart livestock production. The programme utilized training materials and tools that were jointly developed, reviewed, and validated by the implementing institutions to ensure both technical relevance and practical applicability. 

To assess learning outcomes, participants completed both pre-training and post-training evaluations. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in knowledge and practical skills, with average competency levels increasing from approximately 13% before training to nearly 98% after completion. These findings highlight the value of targeted capacity-building interventions in improving awareness, skills, and best practices among dairy value chain actors. 

By promoting a One Health approach that integrates animal, human, and environmental health, this initiative contributes to safer milk production, reduced risks of milk-borne and zoonotic diseases, improved consumer confidence, and the sustainable development of Tanzania’s dairy sector.