The Dairy Development Authority (DDA) has urged dairy processors across Uganda to adopt climate-smart processing practices as part of efforts to mitigate environmental degradation.
The DDA has emphasized the importance of installing functional effluent treatment plants (ETPs) in dairy processing factories to recycle water and reduce environmental harm.
For years, public concern has grown over the environmental practices of certain milk processors, particularly a factory in Mbarara, which has been criticized for failing to comply with regulations set by both the DDA and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
The factory's poor waste management has been linked to air pollution, affecting nearby businesses.
The DDA is now taking action by requiring all dairy processors to implement smart climate processing techniques to protect the environment.
"We are advising them to install effluent treatment plants to ensure that discharged water is clean and can be reused within the factory," said Atuha Denis, a dairy inspector at the DDA.
One dairy processor that has been recognized for its environmental efforts is Lakeside Dairies, located in Ruti, Mbarara City.
The factory has been praised for adhering to NEMA regulations and maintaining a fully functional effluent treatment plant.
In addition, Lakeside Dairies has planted trees on its premises, helping to absorb emissions from the factory’s production processes.
"Lakeside Dairies has always respected NEMA regulations. They planted trees around their compound, and their effluent treatment plant is fully operational. As neighbors of the factory, this is exactly what we hoped for," said Agaba Darious, a local resident.
Sydney Mark Wamala, the Quality Assurance Manager at Lakeside Dairies, explained that the company's commitment to environmental protection extends beyond water management.
"Our key role is to protect the environment as we process milk," Wamala said. "We ensure that all waste from the factory is treated to a level where it is safe to release into the environment."
Lakeside Dairies also uses firewood as an energy source for its boilers, sourced from surrounding communities. To ensure sustainability, the company encourages these communities to embrace afforestation practices.
"When visitors come here and see how we promote tree planting and greenery, they understand how important it is for their communities," Wamala said, adding that tree planting can also provide future income for these communities.
This push for greener practices follows concerns over the degradation of fragile ecosystems in Ankole, including River Rwizi, which serves as the primary water source for Mbarara City and its surrounding areas.
The DDA's call for climate-smart processing aims to balance dairy production with environmental sustainability, protecting Uganda's natural resources for future generations.