Turning the feed crisis into an opportunity: How improved forages can transform livestock systems in sub-Saharan Africa
Livestock are at the heart of rural livelihoods across sub-Saharan Africa. From pastoral systems in drylands to mixed crop–livestock farms in high-potential areas, cattle, sheep, and goats provide food, income, traction, manure, and social security for millions of households. Yet despite hosting nearly a quarter of the world’s ruminants, the region produces less than 3% of global meat and milk. One reason stands out above all others: A chronic shortage of quality livestock feed.
- Africa
- crops
- nutrition
- feed
- Agricultural Innovation
- Nigeria
Turning the feed crisis into an opportunity: How improved forages can transform livestock systems in sub-Saharan Africa
Livestock are at the heart of rural livelihoods across sub-Saharan Africa. From pastoral systems in drylands to mixed crop–livestock farms in high-potential areas, cattle, sheep, and goats provide food, income, traction, manure, and social security for millions of households. Yet despite hosting nearly a quarter of the world’s ruminants, the region produces less than 3% of global meat and milk. One reason stands out above all others: A chronic shortage of quality livestock feed.
A new multi-country analysis shows that this feed crisis is not only a constraint – it is also a major economic and development opportunity. With targeted investments in improved forages and seed systems, sub-Saharan Africa could significantly boost livestock productivity, farmer incomes, and climate resilience over the coming decade.