Tap Into the $65B 'Shroom Boom'

People are rapidly discovering how mushrooms can enhance brain function, gut health, immunity, and more. The only thing holding them back? A simple way to grow them. Hypha Labs built a compact countertop device to solve exactly that.

Somalia's camel milk revolution is improving nutrition and creating jobs

OMAR FARUK
August 03, 2025

MOGADISHU, Somalia (AP) -- Camels have long been the backbone of Somalia 's pastoralist culture, feeding families, transporting goods and standing tall in local folklore. But on the dusty outskirts of the capital, the camel now finds itself at the center of an agricultural revolution that could redefine Somali farming.

On a breezy Wednesday morning in mid-June, The Associated Press visited Beder Camel Farm -- one of a new generation of camel dairies springing up around Mogadishu.

Dozens of camels sauntered around sandy paddocks while others nibbled on fresh fodder under the watchful eyes of herders. In a nearby shed, workers carefully milked the animals and collected the frothy yield in sanitized containers.

Demand for camel milk is growing, buoyed by a wave of local entrepreneurs who see untapped potential in a traditional resource.

Modernizing camel milk production

Somalia is home to over 7 million camels -- more than any other country on Earth -- but only a fraction of that milk has ever reached urban grocery shelves, according to industry estimates.

At the heart of the shift toward a modern approach to camel milk production is Dr. Abdirisak Mire Hashi, a veterinarian and the farm's manager. For Hashi, it's not only about profit -- it's about preserving heritage while embracing progress.

"Somalis take pride in their heritage of raising camels. However, the way camels are raised has changed significantly over time," Hashi told The Associated Press as he inspected a milking herd.

Each camel at Beder now produces up to 10 liters (2.6 gallons) of milk daily -- double what traditional herders typically yield. The increase is attributed to new investments in veterinary care, better feed, and modern milking practices. The camels are routinely checked by vets, given nutritional supplements, and grazed on scientifically blended fodder, a far cry from the roaming nomadic herds of decades gone by.

"We were among the first to establish this kind of farm back in 2006, when very few people even knew about commercial camel milk production," said Jama Omar, CEO of Beder Camel Farm. "Other farms have entered the market since then, but we currently hold around 40% of the market share."

"We employ nearly 200 full-time staff," he added. "In addition, we bring in seasonal workers during key periods such as planting and harvest."

Pioneering camel milk yogurt

The farm's biggest leap may be its yogurt factory -- the first in Somalia dedicated to processing camel milk into yogurt.

Inside the factory, workers in white coats oversee stainless steel vats as fresh milk is cultured and packed. The final product is sold under the Beder brand which now retails in urban supermarkets across Mogadishu.

Nelson Njoki Githu, a Kenyan-born food engineer overseeing the production line, says camel milk yogurt isn't just a novelty -- it fills an important nutritional gap for local consumers.

"The number one benefit compared to cow milk is that camel milk has lower levels of lactose," Githu explained. "People with lactose intolerance can consume this milk without any issue. Again, the vitamin levels are higher, especially vitamin C, iron and zinc, compared to cow milk."

For nutritionist Dr. Yahye Sholle, camel milk yogurt is a public health boost in a country where malnutrition remains a challenge.

"It is rich in magnesium and calcium, which support bone health. Additionally, it contains vitamins B12, C, and D. It also includes friendly bacteria known as probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health," he said.

Such benefits have helped Beder's yogurt stand out in Mogadishu's increasingly competitive dairy market.

Hashi said the next step is scaling up the business. He hopes to expand Beder's network of collection points beyond Mogadishu and plans to train pastoralists in remote areas on modern milking and hygiene practices so that more milk can be safely processed and sold.

"If we can modernize how we raise camels and handle the milk, we can create jobs, improve nutrition, and build pride in our own local products," Hashi said.

Somali government encourages more investment

The Somali government is encouraging more investment in the industry.

"The benefits of camel milk are countless," said Dr. Kasim Abdi Moalim, Director of Animal Health at Somalia's Ministry of Livestock. "In countries like the UAE, camel milk is also used for cosmetics. Somalia must catch up and develop the full value chain."

He said that government support is growing, with the establishment of a Dairy Act and a strategy for livestock sector development. "A master investment plan is also in progress," he added.

Back at the paddock, a line of camels stretches into the golden afternoon light, their steady, patient footsteps a reminder that progress in Somalia often moves at the pace of tradition -- slow but unstoppable.

From ancient caravans that crossed deserts to supermarket shelves stocked with yogurt, the Somali camel's journey continues, one cup at a time.

___

For more on Africa and development: https://apnews.com/hub/africa-pulse

The Associated Press receives financial support for global health and development coverage in Africa from the Gates Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

Continue Reading...

Popular

Marjorie Taylor Greene Increases These 2 Stocks In Portfolio, Including This AI Name Up Over 100% YTD

Marjorie Taylor Greene has bought stocks multiple times in 2025 and her recent disclosure adds to one of the stocks that drew the biggest red flags in 2025.

These 3 Dividend-Yielding Stocks Could Outperform As High Fed Rates Spark $4.9 Billion Inflows: Expert

Expert highlights the top high divided yielding stocks and funds that investors could consider to seize the opportunity amid high Fed rates.

FDA Submission Expected This Summer - Invest Before It Happens - Ad

This company is making heart disease easier to detect with AI. Their tech has officially been designated a "Breakthrough" by the FDA. You now have an opportunity to get in at a potential inflection point.

Mark Cuban Praised His 'Hustling' Son, But Told Kids: 'Figure Out Who You Are, You Don't Need To Follow In My Footsteps'

Jake Cuban embarked on an entrepreneurial journey reminiscent of his father's early business ventures by starting a side hustle selling candy at his school.

Russia insists on achieving Ukraine goals despite Trump's ultimatum

Russia is open to peace with Ukraine, but achieving its goals remains a priority, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Sunday, days after U.S. President to agree to a ceasefire or .

Better Than Bitcoin? (Top Crypto for Less Than $1) - Ad

Over the past 15 years, Bitcoin has outperformed stocks, bonds, and every other asset you could've bought. 2025 is already shaping up to be another banner year, with Bitcoin recently hitting a new all-time high. But there's a better way to profit from this new crypto rally. Most people don't know about it... and yet it's returned over 1,000% in 4 months. This could be the #1 way to invest in crypto right now.

Cathie Wood's Ethereum Double-Down: Ark Bets $7.9 Million On ETH-Staking ETF Buy While Selling Coinbase At Highs

On Wednesday, Cathie Wood-led Ark Invest executed significant trades, including substantial purchases in Tempus AI Inc. (NASDAQ:TEM), NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:NVDA), 3iQ Ether Stakin

How to Hack a $1.3T Market - Ad

Forget concrete. The new foundation for real estate success is digital, and Pacaso leads the way. Their tech unlocks a $1.3T real estate market. They've already earned $110M+ in gross profits in their operating history and reserved the Nasdaq ticker PCSO.

Drone attacks on oil fields in Iraq's Kurdish region shut down another facility

BAGHDAD (AP) — Drones targeted Wednesday, the latest in a series of attacks in recent days that have put several oil facilities out of commission.

Coldplay's jumbotron captures — what exactly? The internet has its theories

LONDON (AP) — It started out as a routine bit of fun at a Coldplay concert: Lead singer Chris Martin asked the cameras to scan the crowd for his “Jumbotron Song,” when he sings a few lines about the people the camera lands on.

Back This Medical AI Tech - Ad

You don't often find healthcare tech company valued at $4M. HeartSciences is an exception. With $75M invested, including R&D, clinical trials, and product development, their patented AI software is approaching FDA submission, a potential major inflection point.

Nvidia-Supplier Taiwan Semiconductor On A Roll, Profit Explodes With Strong Margin Growth

Taiwan Semiconductor (TSM) reports strong Q2 results and expects continued growth in demand for advanced processor technologies, with revenue guidance of $31.8 billion to $33.0 billion for Q3.

What's inside Elon's building in Memphis will shock you - Ad

Inside Elon Musk's Memphis site lies a supercomputer built to power the world's first superhuman AI. It could make Elon a trillionaire - and new millionaires, too. With just $500, you could get in before the September 1st funding window closes.

One Tech Tip: How to clean your computer, earbuds and smartphone

LONDON (AP) — Smartphones, laptops, headphones and other electronic devices are essential for work and play in our daily lives. But all that time spent typing, scrolling or listening also means our devices gradually accumulate grime that needs to be cleaned off.

Forget 'Wealth': Warren Buffett Says This Word Is the True Measure of Success

Warren Buffett imparted his unique viewpoint on success, underscoring the significance of love and respect over the accumulation of wealth.

If You Missed Tesla, Here's Your "Second Chance"... - Ad

If you missed your shot at turning $1,000 into more than $18,000 when I recommended Tesla, you'll want to pay close attention. I'm 100% convinced Elon's "Agenda X" could make early investors rich. But you need to hurry, because Elon and Visa are moments away from launching.

Beef: It's What's for Dinner — If You Can Afford It

Here's a look at why beef is the latest item driving grocery bills higher.

Back the Biotech Company Unlocking Mushroom Health Benefits for All - Ad

Functional mushrooms can boost mental, gut, and immune health-but people can't grow them at home. One company is making it easy with a patent-pending kitchen device. Think Nespresso, but for mushrooms. The functional mushroom market is projected to nearly double by 2030.

Investing Legend Hints the End May Be Near for These 3 Iconic Stocks - Ad

Futurist Eric Fry say Amazon, Tesla and Nvidia are all on the verge of major disruption. To help protect anyone with money invested in them, he's sharing three exciting stocks to replace them with. He gives away the names and tickers completely free in his brand-new "Sell This, Buy That" broadcast.

What's in the Republican bill cutting $9 billion from public broadcasting and foreign aid

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Republican-led Congress is testing the popularity of spending cuts this week by aiming to pass President Donald Trump’s request to in public broadcasting and foreign aid spending.

Is Elon's Empire Crumbling? - Ad

Jeff Brown - the legend who called Tesla and Nvidia early - says Elon is about to launch a $25T AI revolution. This isn't another chatbot. It's real-world AI that could 14X the impact of ChatGPT. But after October 23rd, it may be too late.

Anthropic Study Shows AI Chatbots Can Transfer Their Bad Habits Through Hidden Signals In Data

AI systems can pick up hidden biases from data, leading to safety concerns. Study shows this can happen even with small models sharing architecture.

Sony's Chipset Unit Up For Sale To Fuel Entertainment Push

Sony is selling its cellular chipset unit as it focuses on entertainment. The unit, acquired for $212M in 2016, could be worth $300M.

Tap Into the $65B 'Shroom Boom' - Ad

People are rapidly discovering how mushrooms can enhance brain function, gut health, immunity, and more. The only thing holding them back? A simple way to grow them. Hypha Labs built a compact countertop device to solve exactly that.

Trump to visit Federal Reserve headquarters as feud with its chair continues

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump is visiting the Federal Reserve headquarters in Washington Thursday, a week after indicating that Fed chair Jerome Powell's on two Fed buildings could be grounds for firing.

Is Costco Stock Topping Out? Key Price Levels To Watch

Costco stock (COST) may have formed a long-term peak. Adhishthana Principles suggest the next move could define the stock's future trajectory.

FDA Submission Expected This Summer - Invest Before It Happens - Ad

This company is making heart disease easier to detect with AI. Their tech has officially been designated a "Breakthrough" by the FDA. You now have an opportunity to get in at a potential inflection point.

What makes a meme stock? Online enthusiasm for a beaten down company with doubtful prospects

NEW YORK (AP) — Investors occasionally scoop up shares of companies whose financial prospects appear dim. The consensus around such companies is that the shares should, if anything, fall further. But they suddenly get touted in online forums and take off for no fundamental reason. Wall Street has dubbed them “meme stocks.”

Microsoft Authenticator is ending password autofill soon. How to set up a passkey before Aug. 1

NEW YORK (AP) — If you're a Microsoft Authenticator user, like me, you’ve probably received at least one notice that the app's password management features are no longer usable and that your stored passwords will be deleted on Aug. 1. Yes, you read right, your passwords will be DELETED this Friday.

Better Than Bitcoin? (Top Crypto for Less Than $1) - Ad

Over the past 15 years, Bitcoin has outperformed stocks, bonds, and every other asset you could've bought. 2025 is already shaping up to be another banner year, with Bitcoin recently hitting a new all-time high. But there's a better way to profit from this new crypto rally. Most people don't know about it... and yet it's returned over 1,000% in 4 months. This could be the #1 way to invest in crypto right now.

BitMine Stock Falls 15.1% After-Hours As Peter Thiel-Backed Company Files Shelf Offering, Might Consider Ethereum Purchase With Proceeds

Shares of Bitmine Immersion Technologies Inc. (AMEX:BMNR) plummeted in Monday's after-market trading after the company filed for a shelf offering to register securities for sale by selling stockholders

Passengers flee smoking jet on emergency slide after apparent landing gear problem at Denver airport

DENVER (AP) — Passengers slid down an emergency slide of a smoking jet at Denver's airport due to a possible problem with the plane's landing gear, authorities said.

How to Hack a $1.3T Market - Ad

Forget concrete. The new foundation for real estate success is digital, and Pacaso leads the way. Their tech unlocks a $1.3T real estate market. They've already earned $110M+ in gross profits in their operating history and reserved the Nasdaq ticker PCSO.

Nissan racks up red ink, but the Japanese automaker promises a return to profit later this year

TOKYO (AP) — Japanese automaker Nissan sank into a 115.8 billion yen ($782 million) loss for April-June, but promised Wednesday to return to profitability later this year.

Trending Now

Information, charts or examples are for illustration and educational purposes only and not for individualized investment management This message contains commercial elements, such as advertising. We only send these offers to those who have opted in to our newsletter. Past performance is not indicative of future results. For these reasons we strongly suggest trading in a DEMO/Simulated account. The information provided by us is for educational and informational purposes only. We make no representations or warranties concerning the products, practices or procedures of any company or entity mentioned or recommended and have not determined if the statements and opinions of the advertiser are accurate, correct or truthful. If you use, act upon or make decisions in reliance on information contained or any external source linked within it, you do so at your own peril and agree to hold us, our officers, directors, shareholders, affiliates and agents without fault.

Copyright smartmoneytrading.net
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service