Jersey Cow, Global Impact: How Dairy is Transforming Lives from Nepal to Africa

How is Jersey’s iconic breed helping families invest in their futures, improve nutrition, and support community livelihoods?

On Thursday 23 October at 6 pm, Jersey Overseas Aid (JOA) will host its next public discussion at the Jersey Arts Centre. The event, titled “Jersey Cow, Global Impact”, will explore how the Jersey cow is transforming lives from Africa to Nepal through JOA’s Dairy for Development programme.

In conversation with key JOA partners, Heifer Netherlands and the Royal Jersey Agricultural and Horticultural Society (RJA&HS), speakers will highlight how small-scale dairy farming enhances food security, creates economic opportunities, and strengthens climate resilience for vulnerable communities.

The panel will also be joined by a special guest from Heifer Nepal, Technical Director, Bhola Shrestha, who will share first-hand insights into theimpact of the Dairy for Development initiative in Nepal. He will speak to how dairy  innovation, including improved farming practices, animal health, and genetics, is helping communities thrive. Agriculture supports nearly 80% of Nepali households and employs around 66% of the labour force, yet most of the population lives in rural areas and faces high poverty levels. Heifer Nepal works within this context by providing livestock, training, and market access to strengthen livelihoods and build resilience.

“As the birthplace of the Jersey breed, and a centre of dairy expertise, our Island is uniquely positioned to support sustainable development abroad. The Jersey cow is not just a source of milk, but of opportunity; helping families to generate income, improve children’s nutrition, and invest in education and healthcare. By sharing our expertise and resources, we are creating a ripple effect that empowers communities for generations. Through our flagship Dairy for Development programme, Jersey is demonstrating that even a small island can make a very big difference - not least through the remarkable impact of the Jersey cow,” said Deputy Carolyn Labey, Chair of Jersey Overseas Aid and Minister for International Development.

JOA’s ongoing Dairy for Development grants enhance milk production, improve animal health and genetics, strengthen value chains, and bring innovative financing to small-scale producers in its target countries. In Zambia, for example, these initiatives are already improving resilience and supporting smallholder farmers in transforming their lives.

Tickets are free, but booking is essential. There will be no admission without a ticket.https://artscentre.je/whats-on/jersey-cow-global-impact/

This event forms part of JOA’s Jersey International Development Network (JIDN), a forum enabling Islanders to learn about overseas aid, hear from international experts, and engage with the latest developments in the field.