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How to develop sustainable livestock production in Africa
COP26 is on the horizon and as part of our coverage we are keeping an eye on issues that affect the African continent. The role of livestock in emitting green house gases has been well document, and now research from the University of California shows that perhaps that may have been overstated, but what can we do to limit the impact given the importance of livestock in Africa? Dr. Adegbola Adesogan, Director of the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Livestock Systems at the University of Florida joins CNBC Africa for more.
Wed, 13 Oct 2021 12:34:08 GMT
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AI Generated Summary
- The research conducted by Dr. Adesogan focuses on improving livestock production in nine African countries through sustainable intensification to address the challenge of low productivity and high greenhouse gas emissions.
- Livestock play a crucial role in sustaining livelihoods in Africa, accounting for about 40% of GDP on average and serving as a significant source of income for many African people.
- Key strategies recommended by Dr. Adesogan to mitigate the impact of livestock production on greenhouse gas emissions include formulating balanced rations, managed grazing, integrating feed additives, and implementing disease management strategies, all of which require financial support and policy backing.
As the world gears up for COP26, a crucial conference on climate change, attention turns to the impact of livestock production on greenhouse gas emissions in Africa. Dr. Adegbola Adesogan, Director of the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Livestock Systems at the University of Florida, sheds light on the research conducted to address this pressing issue. The research, funded by Gates and USAID, focuses on improving livestock production in nine African countries through sustainable intensification. The overarching goal is to tackle the challenge of low productivity and high greenhouse gas emissions in African livestock systems. Dr. Adesogan highlights the importance of livestock to the African continent, not just in terms of agricultural productivity but also as a significant source of income, accounting for about 40% of GDP on average. Livestock play a crucial role in sustaining livelihoods, with up to 80% of people in countries like Burkina Faso involved in the livestock industry. To mitigate the impact of livestock production on greenhouse gas emissions while ensuring the sector's vitality, Dr. Adesogan recommends several key strategies. Firstly, formulating balanced rations that meet the nutrient needs of animals can reduce waste and emissions at minimal cost. Managed grazing and incorporating trees into livestock systems are also vital in combatting overgrazing. Additionally, integrating feed additives into livestock diets and implementing disease management strategies can further enhance productivity and reduce emissions per unit of product. Financial support is crucial to implement these strategies effectively. Dr. Adesogan emphasizes the need for policies that promote sustainable intensification of the livestock sector, focusing on reducing animal numbers while increasing productivity. Donor funding is essential to support these initiatives, ensuring the supply of animal source foods that are vital for livelihoods and combating stunting in African children. Stunting, a condition that impedes proper brain development and school achievement, has significant implications for the GDP of African countries. By producing animal source foods efficiently and sustainably, Africa can address both nutritional needs and promote cognitive development in children, contributing to overall economic growth and development.
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