Presidential Visit to Nestanovichi Agro
Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko conducted a working visit to the Nestanovichi Agro dairy complex in the Logoisk District of Minsk Oblast on Saturday, February 28, 2026. The visit was dedicated to addressing critical agricultural matters, with a particular focus on livestock breeding and crop production.
During his inspection, President Lukashenko underscored the paramount importance of maintaining 'ideal order' in animal husbandry organization and overall farming practices. He stated that this is 'the key to animal health and preservation, and ultimately — to economic results.' He personally inspected the facilities for cattle and newborn calf care, even demonstrating by clearing straw in calf enclosures with a pitchfork.
Focus on Modernization and Performance
The Nestanovichi Agro complex, which specializes in both livestock breeding and crop production, has shown strong performance. As of January 1, 2026, the enterprise reported a 3.3% increase in the growth rate of gross agricultural output in comparable prices for 2025, with livestock production surging by 13.8% compared to the previous year. The cattle population exceeded 4,700 head, marking a 0.1% year-on-year increase.
Key performance indicators highlighted during the visit included:
- Milk production increased by 15.5% compared to 2024.
- The average productivity of the dairy herd rose by 2,120 kg, reaching 8,746 kg.
- In early January 2026, the average milk yield per cow was 9,700 kg, with 100% of the milk produced being of the highest 'extra' grade.
The complex is currently undergoing a reconstruction project designed to expand its capacity to accommodate 1,500 head of cattle. Presently, it houses 750 dairy cows across two barns. A modern calf care facility, built two years prior, was noted for its effectiveness in significantly reducing livestock mortality.
Addressing Agricultural Challenges and Personnel
President Lukashenko also engaged with the complex's personnel, including Shaka Keitou, a native of Mali who serves as the chief livestock specialist and is known locally as 'Fyodorovich.' Keitou, who received his agricultural education in Belarus, was urged by the President 'not to feel like a stranger' and to 'fully demand compliance with technology and discipline from everyone.'
The President reiterated his call for 'patronage assistance' from large industrial enterprises to support rural areas, emphasizing that such support is 'our salvation for the countryside.' This visit aligns with Lukashenko's broader focus on improving agricultural efficiency and profitability across Belarus, a sector he has consistently highlighted as crucial for the nation's economic stability, despite acknowledging challenges such as animal mortality and the financial reliance of some agricultural enterprises on state support.
5 Comments
Bermudez
It's positive to see agricultural output increasing and modernization efforts underway at Nestanovichi Agro. However, the article also mentions reliance on state support, which raises questions about long-term financial viability without external assistance.
Africa
The President's emphasis on discipline and technology is understandable for improving efficiency in the sector. Yet, the call for 'patronage assistance' suggests underlying systemic issues that individual farm visits alone can't fully resolve.
Habibi
Great to see President Lukashenko personally involved. Strong leadership leads to real results!
Muchacho
While the productivity gains, especially in milk yield, are commendable, expanding cattle numbers could exacerbate environmental pressures if not managed carefully. We need a clearer balance between production goals and ecological responsibility.
Coccinella
Maintaining 'ideal order' is crucial for any farm. Glad to see such a focus on discipline and technology.