ERTOBA : FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE DAIRY ECONOMY IN THE LESSER CAUCASUS

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Context

A disorganized regional dairy value chain

In the Samtskhe Javakheti region, 64% of the population lives in rural areas and dairy farming is omnipresent. The production level of cows is low. In terms of quality, current practices cannot guarantee healthy dairy products. The milk produced is mainly processed on the farm into cheese. The few local private or cooperative dairies process small quantities; they encounter difficulties in obtaining regular supplies of quality milk.
It is in this context that since 2012 farmers have started gathering together; first, informally and then within Ertoba association. To meet these challenges, they are supported by GBDC team (7 technicians).

Objectives

Improving the livelihood of breeders through the development of the dairy sector

Increasing the production of milk and improving its quality through training, advice and production of references	Promoting collective organization by building the capacity of leader breeders and by encouraging group initiatives	Improving the valorization of dairy products, through cheese processing on the farm or in dairies (private or cooperative)

Actions

Technical and economic advice on all factors of milk production

In about 10 villages, GBDC team supports breeders in different ways:
• Farm diagnosis and consultations on 4 themes: animal health and reproduction, fodder production and feed, livestock buildings, quality and dairy processing.
• Animation of groups: trainings, study trips, support for group projects (joint purchasing, collective facilities).
• Supporting dairies in milk collection and cheese processing.
• Supporting professional structuring: leaders’ training, monitoring and relations with local authorities.
Ertoba association and GBDC benefit from the support of Fert and missions from French partners (Savencia Ressources Laitières, BTPL).