Unlocking Africa's Animal Resources

Unlocking Africa's Animal Resources: Opportunities, Challenges, and Pathways to Sustainability Common African position

Africa’s Vast Animal Resources Potential

In Africa, sustainable animal resources development stands as a common priority, acknowledging the continent's vast opportunities and confronting the associated challenges. Africa boasts one-third of the global livestock population, thriving within diverse production systems and abundant freshwater and marine fisheries, aquaculture resources, and aquatic biodiversity. Notably, the livestock sector contributes significantly, constituting 24.9% of Africa's Agricultural Gross Domestic Product (AGDP).

Challenges Confronting Sustainable Development

Yet, challenges persist. The growing demand to feed an expanding population, compounded by the impacts of climate change, poses significant hurdles. The sector grapples with limited expenditure, perpetuated by conflicts, political instability, and migration. Moreover, the predominance of an informal sector and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) complicates industry regulation and development.

Emerging Threats: Alarming Trends

Alarming trends underscore the urgency of action. Zoonotic diseases have surged by 63%, representing a significant public health concern. The silent pandemic of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) exacerbates these challenges.

Nutrition Challenges and Expenditure Disparities

The 2021 Biennial Review Report reflects a sobering reality, with only four AU Member States on track to meet 2025 nutrition targets, including the reduction of stunting to below 10%. Africans consume animal-sourced foods well below recommended levels, averaging 14kg of meat and 37 liters of milk per capita, far below the global average of 38.7.

Furthermore, in 2020, livestock expenditure accounted for just 16.15% of total government expenditure on agriculture, falling short of the LiDeSA-recommended target of 30%. Only three countries allocated 30% or more of their agriculture spending to the livestock sector.

Urgent Need for Strategic Action

Recognizing the pivotal role of the animal resources sector in achieving food security and transforming livelihoods, there is a pressing need to prioritize climate adaptation funding for African livestock and aquaculture systems. Strengthening national institutional capacities to lead sustainable animal industries, expanding resilient animal value chains, and promoting inter-African trade in animals and animal products are critical steps toward realizing the immense potential of Africa's animal resources.