FAO Global Conference 2025 on Sustainable Livestock Transformation:Contribution of AU-IBAR on regional and international perspectives.

At the FAO Global Conference on Sustainable Livestock Transformation, Dr. Huyam Salih, Director of AU-IBAR, reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to placing livestock at the center of Africa’s agricultural agenda through the new CAADP framework (2026–2035).
With Africa’s population projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, coordinated action is more urgent than ever. Livestock is not only a source of food, it is a lifeline for 70% of Africans, providing livelihoods, nutrition, and social stability.
AU-IBAR outlined five key priorities for advancing livestock transformation across the continent:
✅ Eradication of PPR and stronger control of transboundary animal diseases.

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✅ Launch of the AU Digital One Health Platform to improve cross-sectoral collaboration.
 ✅ Climate-resilient and sustainable livestock systems to safeguard food security.
✅ Regional trade integration through AfCFTA, boosting intra-African markets.
✅ Expanded access to animal protein, particularly to combat child malnutrition.
✅ Protection of working animals as part of inclusive and welfare-centered development.
The discussions emphasized that Member States, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), partners, and the private sector must work together to transform Africa’s livestock systems into resilient engines of food security, trade, and inclusive growth.
As Dr. Salih concluded: “Livestock is at the heart of Africa’s development future. By investing in innovation, partnerships, and resilience, Africa can transform its livestock sector into a driver of prosperity for generations to come.