The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has adopted a comprehensive regional strategy for livestock development. This significant milestone was achieved during a hybrid ministerial conference attended by agriculture ministers from all 15 ECOWAS member states.
The conference was attended by ministers from Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Mali, Niger, Liberia, Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone, Togo, Benin Republic, Chad, and Mauritania.
In his address, ECOWAS Chairman Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized the importance of livestock systems in enhancing resilience within ECOWAS communities. Represented by Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi, the Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Tinubu highlighted the strategy’s role in boosting the region’s GDP and promoting market integration and production systems.
President Tinubu has demonstrated his commitment to developing Nigeria’s livestock farming system by establishing a dedicated Ministry of Livestock Development. This move aligns with his vision for agricultural growth and economic development.
The chairman emphasized that the livestock development strategy is crucial for agricultural development, with benefits including reducing livestock imports, creating job opportunities, and minimizing regional conflicts. Additionally, the strategy aims to include women and youth to promote inclusivity and ensure that all key stakeholders are integral to the agenda.
Alain SY TRAORE, Director of Agricultural and Rural Development at ECOWAS, presented a summary of the strategy, highlighting the need for collaboration among member states to achieve its goals. The main objective is to improve productivity and secure sustainable livestock systems to meet the growing demand for animal protein and strengthen the resilience of populations in West Africa and the Sahel.
The strategy focuses on four areas of intervention: enhancing economic potential, improving governance, promoting health, and developing a favorable environment for public and private investments in livestock. Its implementation will involve engaging political leaders, conducting multi-stakeholder consultations, and executing technical measures.
Traore noted that earlier, member states had identified regional challenges, including the capacity to meet the increasing demand for animal protein due to population growth, insecurity, and farmer/herder clashes, among other issues.
