Trade Competitiveness of Somali Livestock Exports: Trends, Pitfals and Prospects

In addition to having enormous potential and making a significant contribution to the agricultural sector in recent years, the livestock sector in Somalia is doing well in terms of production, exports, and competitiveness. This study demonstrates the dynamic nature of Somalia's livestock industry, characterized by fluctuating growth rates, stable production, shifting populations, and evolving export trends for various animal products. Opportunities and difficulties exist, such as the need to improve wool production and productivity while addressing oscillations in the industry. Raising cattle not only generates revenue but also ensures nutritional security, helping rural households, particularly marginal and small farmers, escape poverty. This study recommends promoting the livestock sector can break the poverty-micronutrient malnutrition cycle, making animal-based foods a strategic intervention for vulnerable groups as policy options. Also, a rapidly increasing population, increasing income levels, and changing food habits are going to put continuous pressure on the demand for livestock products; thus, a brief knowledge about the trends and development of the sector gives a broad view to policymakers.