Livestock and Pasture Development Project in the Eastern Region

The project’s main objectives were to improve incomes and living conditions for subsistence farmers and to halt environmental degradation. It targeted farmers using traditional livestock systems on collective rangeland, in an arid region with limited resources and rudimentary infrastructure. Specific measures and activities were planned to ensure that the poorest farmers, particularly women, who bear the burden of livestock-related tasks, would benefit from investments.

Aims of the project were to:

1. increase the productivity of intensive pasture systems
2. support rangeland management
3. improve the water supply
4. promote environmental protection
5. promote income-generating activities for women

The project, which was followed by a second phase in 2004, showed a number of results. Despite five years of drought between 1997 and 2001, more than 460,000 ha of pasturelands were rehabilitated. The average time needed to reach waterholes was reduced by 48 per cent between 1989 and 1999, and more than 60 waterholes were repaired or installed. Because of improved veterinary services, sheep mortality was reduced from six to two per cent. Livestock breeders organized 44 cooperatives. Local livestock practices, such as rangeland control and respect for rangeland usage rights, have improved. The project raised awareness among livestock breeders and farmers about the need for sustainable use of pasture resources and for adoption of conservation measures.

Although progress was made, small livestock breeders remain more vulnerable to drought than others. The project’s second phase focuses more specifically on diversifying their resource base, especially for women.

Source: IFAD