Farmer Field Schools (FFSs): Empowering Female Livestock Breeders

05/02/2026

Yemen's food security crisis remains a pressing humanitarian concern. The conflict has exacerbated the situation, driving food insecurity to alarming levels and contributing to severe malnutrition rates across the country.

This crisis has had a devastating impact on various sectors, including livestock, which constitutes a significant portion of Yemen's agricultural economy, contributing an estimated 20% of agricultural GDP. Approximately 80% of farms in the country rely on livestock, making it the primary source of income for many rural households.

A Hands-On Approach to Agricultural Learning

FFS participants undergo thorough training in every step of livestock production, including choosing the right breeds, preparing suitable housing, and ultimately selling their livestock.

Through these sessions, FFS participants receive comprehensive training in livestock breeding and fattening, covering all stages from breed selection and shelter preparation to feeding, animal health management, and marketing.

This newfound knowledge has transformed Nabila's livestock farming practices. in the past, her livestock showed gradual but slow weight gain. However, after following the techniques she learnt at the FFS, she observed significant improvement. She proudly states, "I applied everything I learnt on my animals, and I have noticed a weekly increase in their weight."

Overcoming challenges

Juggling her responsibilities as a wife, mother of three, and livestock farmer, Nabila struggled to attend FFS sessions. Yet, she explains, "My goal was to learn from the experts and then share that knowledge with other women unable to attend."

During the formation of FFSs, FAO provided essential medicines for the fattening process, along with equipment like fodder choppers, presses, and scales. These tools help reduce feed waste, facilitate feed storage, and monitor livestock weight gain weekly.

These resources, combined with the knowledge and skills gained from FFS, have empowered farmers like Nabila to improve their livestock practices. Despite being a listener, Nabila actively participated in the sessions and was committed to taking full advantage of the program. Commenting on the impact of FFSs on female livestock farmers, Nabila points out, "All livestock farmers benefited from this program. Some expanded their barns, others doubled their fattening efforts to boost income, and all of us learned to reduce feed waste, substantially cutting our feed costs.”

Before participating in the FFSs program, Nabila's livestock farming was a constant struggle. “Livestock rearing was unprofitable. I used to spend a lot of money fodder, but my animals would remain small, forcing me to sell them at low prices,” she recalls. “I faced immense hardships, often selling my livestock at minimal prices to meet my family's needs,” she adds.

The FFSs program has transformed Nabila's approach to livestock farming. Nabila enthusiastically expresses her gratitude for the knowledge gained from the FFS program, "I would learn something new every session, and I would leave looking forward to the next. Despite the challenges I face, I would attend all sessions because I noticed the weekly increase in my livestock weight.” She adds, “In the past, I would sell a sheep for 60,000 Y.R. (113 USD), but I can now sell it for 90,000 Y.R. (170 USD)”

This project has not only empowered Nabila to improve her livestock practices but has also had a profound impact on her life. " Knowing that I can now provide for my family brings me great relief and comfort, further fueling my enthusiasm for livestock breeding. Although my work is tiring, the rewards are truly satisfying," she elaborates.

Nabila is one of many livestock farmers who have benefited from the FFS program, since it has significantly improved her income and livelihood. As Yemen grapples with a severe food security crisis, supporting the agricultural livelihoods of vulnerable populations, such as livestock farmers, is paramount. This strategy not only enhances food security but also creates employment opportunities, enhance sustainable local food production, and empowers communities to sustain their livelihoods.