Micro-Livestock Farming and Food Security in Sub Saharan Africa

This is a review paper that explores the feasibility of utilization of micro livestock species as an option to meet the animal product demand in Sub Saharan Africa. Micro livestock species are likely to become increasingly important source of animal protein as a result of rapid increase in human population. This is on the understanding that production of animal products has been outpaced with the increased human population in the region. In that case, alternative sources of animal protein such as micro livestock need to be promoted, and if not, livestock products will be beyond the reach of the majority of the ordinary persons. The discussion highlights the need to promote alternative sources of animal protein supply to reduce the current animal product demand supply gap. The space for classic livestock rearing have decreased, and this scenario will suit the keeping of smaller animals which are prolific and easy to manage. This warrant serious consideration of micro livestock farming as one of the major component of the livestock production systems. It is against this background that this discussion put forward some suggestions for promoting micro livestock farming in Sub Saharan Africa. Micro livestock farming has greater opportunities in improving livelihoods among the rural poor households, provided that productivity is enhanced and appropriate input and services can be availed. Strategies and program of action that enable micro livestock farming to contribute to optimization of food production and enhance food security on sustainable and environmentally sound basis are recommended.