The National Development Plan 9 (NDP-9) identifies critical constraints to the growth of Somalia's livestock sector, including land degradation, deforestation of rangeland, water scarcity, disease prevalence, and inadequate pasture and fodder availability. FAO Somalia has been addressing these issues through various initiatives, such as land restoration, data collection via SWALIM, improved soil and water management, animal treatment and vaccinations, and enhancing fodder's nutritional value. These efforts align with the Sustainable Food Systems Framework, emphasizing economic viability, societal benefits, and positive environmental impact for sustainability.

The SIRA project, in its first phase, aimed to enhance fodder quantity and quality, educate fodder producers on best practices, improve animal nutrition and health, and bolster the fodder market. It also sought to raise the skill level of fodder producers regarding marketing, pricing, storage, and transportation, ultimately increasing income and resilience for agropastoralist households. Phase I revealed a lack of linkages between fodder producers and milk producers/buyers and a general undervaluation of fodder crops. Community consultations ranked fodder as the top priority value chain, followed by live animals and dairy.

Fodder cultivation is underdeveloped, with reliance on crop residues and natural pastures. Fodder availability is closely tied to seasonal rainfall patterns, impacting forage and livestock feed. Natural resource scarcity, including fodder, contributes to displacement and conflict, as families abandon rural areas due to loss of land and water resources, leading to clashes between herders and farmers. Increased fodder production and marketing opportunities can help reduce displacement and conflicts by expanding livelihood options and income generation.

FAO's role extends to global food security and resilience initiatives, such as the Committee on World Food Security and the Food Security Information Network (FSIN). The SIRA Phase II project builds on lessons learned from Phase I, including stakeholder engagement challenges initially faced, which were overcome through community collaboration, government support, and visible project commitment. Partnerships, knowledge sharing, and effective communication are vital components of the project.

Overall, SIRA Phase II aims to further enhance livestock fodder production, strengthen stakeholder involvement, and contribute to improved food security and resilience in Somalia.