Egypt, FAO sign €4M cooperation protocol to enhance livestock development, address climate change

CAIRO - 16 December 2024: Egypt’s Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) signed an agreement to boost livestock development and address climate change. The agreement, funded by a €4 million grant from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, aims to improve Egypt’s agricultural sustainability while enhancing food security. 

 

The initiative will be executed in collaboration with the General Authority for Veterinary Services and other agencies, focusing on enhancing livestock management, improving animal health, and combating antibiotic-resistant microbes.

 

The protocol was signed by Alaa Farouk, Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, and 

AbdulHakim ElWaer, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative in Cairo. Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat, witnessed the signing of a cooperation protocol.

 

Al-Mashat emphasized the agricultural sector’s critical role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and ensuring food security. She highlighted the importance of adopting climate-resilient policies and sustainable agricultural practices under the NWFE program. She also praised the partnership with FAO and the Italian government, noting its alignment with Egypt’s Sustainable Development Strategy: Vision 2030 and other national initiatives.

 

The agriculture minister outlined Egypt's Livestock Development Strategy, which aims to improve local cattle and buffalo breeding, develop high-yield dairy and meat breeds, and achieve self-sufficiency in livestock production. He highlighted challenges such as rising global feed prices, climate change impacts, and a lack of comprehensive livestock data. The protocol will address these issues while supporting smallholder farmers.

 

FAO representative, AbdulHakim ElWaer, reiterated the organization's commitment to supporting Egypt’s agricultural development, including climate adaptation and food security goals. He noted the alignment of this project with Egypt's climate strategies and national initiatives like "Haya Karima" and "Bedaya"

 

Head of the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, Martino Melli, confirmed the grant funding for the project in Beheira and Assiut governorates. He emphasized Italy's longstanding support for Egypt's agricultural projects, including initiatives like Kafy and Zera’a, aimed at sustainable development.

 

The project, titled “Addressing Climate Change through Sustainable Livestock Management,” seeks to modernize Egypt’s livestock sector and promote environmentally friendly practices. It will also serve as a model for South-South cooperation, helping other developing nations replicate Egypt’s successful initiatives.