Addis Ababa:The African Union Commissioner, Josefa Sacko, emphasized that Africa continues to underexploit its animal resources due to challenges such as animal nutrition and health. She spoke at the launch of the Pan-African Programme for the Eradication of Peste des Petits Ruminants in Africa (PPR), highlighting the difficulties African countries face in achieving food and nutritional security while preserving natural resources.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Josefa Sacko noted that the animal resources sector, particularly livestock farming, is vital for rural subsistence, food security, and trade. She warned that without increased livestock production, the demand for animal-based foods will lead to higher import bills for many African nations.
Sacko also expressed concerns about the lack of transformation in the livestock sector, which could slow local industry growth, limit employment opportunities, especially for youth and women, reduce pastoralist incomes, and decrease tax revenues. She advocated for sustainable livestock production to boost local economies and entrepreneurship, thereby reducing rural-urban migration.
The Angolan ambassador pointed out that the livestock sector contributes over 40% to Africa's agricultural GDP, with significant growth potential. She called for investments aligned with the Kampala Declaration and the Comprehensive African Agricultural Development Programme (CAADP) to fulfill Agenda 2063 aspirations.
To address these issues, the eradication of small ruminant pests in Africa is crucial to strengthening food security and economic growth. The AU Commissioner mentioned an estimated budget of 528 million Euros required for the eradication program, with the European Union Commission committing 100 million Euros, including eight million Euros for the preparatory phase.
The African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) reports that Africa hosts about one billion sheep and goats, accounting for significant portions of the global small ruminant population. These animals are essential assets in arid regions and a safety net for vulnerable populations, although their productivity is affected by the PPR disease.
