Why research, innovations in livestock crucial to increase production

DAR ES SALAAM: RESEARCH and innovations in livestock are needed to increase production and contribute to improving livelihoods, while at the same time, coping with climate change.

The Director General of the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) Professor Appollinaire Djikeng noted this during a session on advancing Africa’s agricultural systems in the face of climate change at the ongoing Africa Food Systems Forum 2023.

“While we know there is a lot of talk about the impact of livestock on climate change, livestock too is being negatively impacted by climate change. Therefore, in our research, we are now looking at everything using a climate lens,” said Prof Djikeng.

According to him, climate change is bringing too much rain to no rain, citing a need to better understand climate change and its immediate and future impact on livestock production.

“We should be clear about what it is that we are losing as a result of climate change and understand the parameter of climate change and the solutions we need to bring to the table,” he said.

Prof Djikeng noted that a priority for research and innovations in the face of climate change is on genetics – developing improved livestock breeds that are better able to tolerate heat stress while at the same time not compromising on productivity.

He also pointed out that working on the health of animals was another key area. Climate change will lead to the spread of new pests and diseases. There is a need to ensure availability of the right vaccines to protect livestock from current new and emerging pests and diseases.

And related to this, is human health and nutrition. It is not only about quantity but also the quality of food. Livestock is key in providing essential nutrients, therefore increasing livestock production will contribute to healthier communities.

Another key area is tapping the job creation opportunities in livestock production, particularly for women and youth. Livestock, especially chicken and goats are especially important for women who in most African cultures are not allowed to own land. Land ownership is also a challenge for young people.

Prof Djikeng underscored nutrition as an important area. It is not only about quantity in food production but also about ensuring quality food. Livestock provide nutrient-dense foods such as milk and eggs, which are important for ensuring healthy populations.

Other critical interventions involve biodiversity conservation, noting that agriculture and livestock are a major contributor to deforestation and loss of biodiversity. Thus, research is exploring how to increase livestock productivity while safeguarding the environment and also supporting smallholder farmers to cope with climate change.

These include ensuring better and healthy livestock breeds by developing improved feeds.

“We cannot leave livestock out of the food systems but we need to find sustainable solutions for different production systems semi-intensive, mixed farming and pastoral systems,” he said.