Camels: an enormous economic and nutrition opportunity for Africa

The Regional Forum on the International Year of Camelids and Sustainable Livestock Transformation in Africa opened today in Nairobi, marking the beginning of a three-day high-level event co-organised by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the African Union InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), and hosted by the Government of Kenya. 

Africa is home to over 80 percent of the world's one-humped camels (dromedaries). Countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia and Sudan are central to realizing the potential of this climate-resilient species. Camel milk, rich in Vitamin C, iron, and other essential nutrients, is often the only source of milk for children in pastoralist communities.  

In his opening remarks, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Africa Abebe Haile-Gabriel highlighted the economic potential of camels. “We are gathered here not only to celebrate the camelid, a symbol of survival in arid lands, but to galvanize momentum for a broader transformation, one that will make Africa’s livestock sector more productive, more sustainable, and more inclusive,” he said, emphasizing the imperative to move the agenda from the margins to the mainstream of policy, investment, and research. 

He called for urgent action to transform Africa’s livestock sector, highlighting the need to strengthen livestock value chains, improve animal health, and promote policies that empower women, youth, and the private sector. “The transformation we seek must be towards more efficient, more inclusive, more resilient, and more sustainable systems,” he stated. 

Bridging the gap between production and potential     
In his opening statement, H.E. Moses Vilakati, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment at the African Union Commission, noted that some African countries consume only 3 to 5 kilograms of animal-source protein per person per year. “Research shows that even occasional consumption of animal products can reduce stunting and improve health outcomes,” he said.  

Vilakati underscored the transformative potential of the livestock sector, pointing out that while sub-Saharan Africa holds 14 percent of the world’s livestock resources, it produces only 2.8 percent of global meat and milk. “This disparity reveals both our challenge and our opportunities,” he said. “We must transform from being net importers of animal source foods to achieving self-reliance and ultimately becoming exporters. This transformation requires strategic interventions that strengthen our entire value chains. And for that, collaboration and partnership are key.” 

Dr. Jonathan Mueke, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Livestock Development in Kenya, highlighted the vital role camels play in climate adaptation and economic development across arid regions. Kenya alone hosts approximately 4.6 million camels, accounting for 13 percent of the global total, he said. Around 80 percent of Kenya’s landmass is classified as arid or semi-arid, where camel keeping is among the most efficient forms of land use. “As climate change intensifies, the role of camels in sustaining livelihoods becomes even more critical. Their resilience to drought and water scarcity makes them a strategic resource for food security and economic stability in the face of climate shocks,” he said.  

Following the opening, the forum launched into technical and policy discussions on sustainable livestock transformation, regional investment frameworks, and the legacy of the International Year of Camelids. An exhibition showcasing camelid-related innovations and cultural heritage was also officially inaugurated. 

The Forum continues over the next two days, gathering policymakers, experts, and stakeholders from across Africa to shape a shared agenda for livestock systems that deliver better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life for all, leaving no one behind.  

About FAO and AU-IBAR 
As the specialized technical office of the African Union, AU-IBAR plays a central role in advancing livestock development across the continent. Its work is guided by the Livestock Development Strategy for Africa (LiDeSA), which contributes directly to the African Union’s Agenda 2063 vision of The Africa We Want. This strategy is closely aligned with the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), particularly in light of the recent Kampala Declaration and the Strategic Plan for 2026–2035, which places renewed emphasis on sustainable livestock development. Under this updated CAADP framework, AU-IBAR will support African Union Member States in tracking progress and reporting on livestock-related indicators, including those related to camelids, through the Biennial Review process. 

FAO’s work on livestock development in Africa is anchored in its global vision for Sustainable Livestock Transformation, which supports countries to build more productive, inclusive, and climate-resilient livestock systems. The Organization works closely with governments, regional bodies, and communities to improve animal health, promote One Health approaches, strengthen value chains, and expand access to markets and innovation. In the context of the International Year of Camelids, FAO is also leading efforts to bring camelid species into the mainstream of research, policy, and investment, recognizing their unique role in food security, nutrition, and climate adaptation in arid and semi-arid regions. Through dedicated programmes on genetics, disease prevention, and value addition, FAO is helping to unlock the full potential of livestock, including camels, for the sustainable development of Africa’s agrifood systems. 

The Forum runs from 10-12 June in Nairobi and online.