Dr. Ali Hersi of University of Hargeisa (UoH), Somaliland opened the six (6) days training of data collectors (surveyors) from South Central Somalia (SCS), Puntland and Somaliland in Ambassador Hotel, Hargeisa. The training was carried out from 9th-14th April 2022. Dr. Sophycate Njue, FAOSO, Dr. Wamalwa Kinyanjui, IGAD and Prof. Harinder, IGAD consultant made welcome remarks. They all emphasized how the exercise is important for resilience and sustainable development of the livestock sector in Somalia. Its success will contribute to improved livelihoods of people. The tradition of pastoralists moving around in search of pastures can be addressed by proper utilization of results from the feed inventory and feed balance. Participants were encouraged to take the training seriously and always endeavor to turn challenges into opportunities. Good establishment of animal feed availability in one location and demand in the other can create vibrant market linkages, thus create opportunities for entrepreneur-minded persons, creating business opportunities. Thirty three (33) surveyors from SCS, Somaliland and Puntland, of whom 12% were female and 88% male were trained. In attendance too were 4 participants from IGAD and 4 from FAOSO. The following were action points:
- SCS, Puntland and Somaliland to embark on drafting the national report on animal feed inventory and balance sheet to be ready by 10th May, 2022 in readiness for validation,
- The pillar I coordinator to follow up with Texas A & M to obtain the grazing biomass modeled from PLEWS to be integrated into the overall report,
- The national teams to complete the crop tools where there are data gaps in ME, DM and CP
ICPALD expresses appreciation to FAO for financing this activity.
