“I believe Dairy farming is for the strong-hearted you need dedication, patience, and passion,” says Roy Syansingu, 51, from Njolwe Dairy Cooperative in Chongwe District.
Former medical personnel in the Zambia Air Force, Roy transitioned into dairy farming after retirement, a decision he describes as both challenging and rewarding. Together with his wife, Mwaka, and their three children Chiwo (17), Yandwa (13), and Bulelo (3) Roy now runs a thriving dairy enterprise that stands as an example of resilience and learning.
Roy began his journey in 2023 with just seven cows three Jerseys, three crosses, and one Holstein. With little formal training, he relied on advice from fellow farmers and self-learning. Despite low milk yields and recurring animal diseases like mastitis, he remained determined to keep his farm running.
“Making the decision to stay on the farm wasn’t easy. I wasn’t ready for it, but I knew I had to keep moving forward,” he recalls.
Roy’s breakthrough came when ADRA Zambia, through the Jersey Breed Focused Dairy Development Project (JBFDDZ) funded by Jersey Overseas Aid (JOA) and Royal Jersey Agricultural & Horticultural Society (RJA&HS) introduced comprehensive training in dairy management, pasture development, and artificial insemination (AI).
“The coming of ADRA was a game-changer,” Roy said. “I was making losses without even realizing it. ADRA enlightened me on proper management and feeding practices, and that completely transformed my farm.”
Through the project, Roy learned the importance of balanced nutrition for dairy cows, improved hygiene, and pasture establishment. He received pasture seeds, which he planted to supplement feed during dry seasons, and his cows’ health and productivity quickly improved.
Before the project, Roy’s seven cows produced around 80 litres of milk daily. After adopting ADRA’s training and feeding recommendations, production nearly doubled to 150 litres per day.
“Just adding protein to my cows’ diet changed everything,” he explained. “Milk production increased, and the animals became healthier and more energetic.”
Roy also participated in the project’s Artificial Insemination (AI) initiative, successfully breeding three female Jersey calves and expecting more. His commitment and improved management practices earned him recognition at the 2025 National Agriculture Show, where he won first place in the Herd Bull Competition for Chongwe District.
“I’m very grateful for the work ADRA is doing,” Roy shared proudly. “They have taken their time to support farmers like me with technical training and pastures that have improved the nutrition and health of our cows. My income is more stable, and I can better provide for my family.”
Roy continues to inspire other farmers in his cooperative, encouraging them to adopt improved dairy practices and see farming not just as a livelihood, but as a business that can transform lives.
With support from Jersey Overseas Aid (JOA) and The Royal Jersey Agricultural & Horticultural Society (RJA&HS), the Jersey Breed Focused Dairy Development Project (JBFDDZ) aims to enhance the productivity, resilience, and livelihoods of smallholder dairy farmers in Zambia through improved genetics, training, and access to markets.
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