During the data collection from livestock keeper in Aqtash, Kunduz. @FAO

Kabul, Afghanistan: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) launched Afghanistan’s second comprehensive nationwide livestock survey (CNLS) on 18 December 2024. This extensive survey covers all 34 provinces, 452 districts and 36 900 villages, including nomadic Kuchi populations, aiming to survey three million households. The survey will provide critical data to inform livestock sector programmes, improve food security and support rural livelihoods.

Why is this survey important?

Livestock is the backbone of Afghanistan’s rural economy, providing livelihoods for millions. However, the last national livestock census was conducted in 2003. Accurate, up-to-date data is urgently needed for effective decision making and strategic planning.

"Livestock plays an integral role in Afghanistan’s food security, economy and the livelihoods of its rural communities. Having accurate data is crucial to improving our support for these communities," FAO Representative in Afghanistan, Richard Trenchard said.

Livestock contributes 15 percent (approximately USD 680 million) to Afghanistan’s agricultural GDP and creates over 1.1 million jobs, with exports including carpets, wool and cashmere. But over the last 40 years, Afghanistan’s livestock population has fluctuated significantly due to insecurity, diseases and drought. Current estimates show around 3.7 million cattle and 16 million sheep and goats, compared to over 30 million two decades ago.

Data collection

For the first time in Afghanistan, the survey will use digital tools to collect data. FAO has trained over 1 200 enumerators, who will visit livestock-keeping households to collect detailed data on livestock types, herd sizes, feeding practices and household socioeconomic conditions. Digital questionnaires will streamline the process, ensuring more accurate and efficient data collection.

The key modules of the survey include the following: The Core Module, which gathers data on livestock types, herd sizes and feeding practices. Supplementary Module 1 focuses on livestock enterprises and producer organizations, while Supplementary Module 2 revisits selected households to capture seasonal changes.

Community engagement

FAO emphasizes the importance of community engagement through public awareness campaigns, community meetings and media outreach to ensure maximum participation. All data collected will remain confidential and used solely for guiding development and humanitarian assistance.

FAO urges all livestock keepers and rural communities to actively participate in the survey. Your involvement is vital to ensure accurate representation of Afghanistan’s livestock sector, which will drive better decisions, improve livelihoods and strengthen food security.

Contact Information:
FAO Representative in Afghanistan
Email: [email protected]