Abstract

This study takes a value chain approach to identify the constraints, opportunities, interventions and possible impact for the milk business in Fafan Zone, Ethiopian Somali Region. A cross sectional survey design was used. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 5 kebeles and from each kebele simple random selection was further used to select 70 women. Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were also held with women, administrative staff and milk producer and distributer. Though milk and milk product sale is the major source of income, the women have limited power in milk price willpower. Cow milk produced average of 1 to 2 L/day during dry and 3 to 5 L/day in rainy season. The major factors affecting the milk business are: low milk productivity, high temperature and poor milk handling containers, absence of improved forage, and poor market infrastructure. There is also poor linkage among development actors in the milk value chain. Thus, there is need for improved infrastructure, enhance input supply system, facilitate the access to credit services, and promote women leadership through trainings.

Key words: Decision making, empowerment, milk market, sampling, value chain.