Camel Milk Production as an Adaptation to Climate Change Induced Drought in East Africa

Abstract

Due in large part to global warming, East Africa has been hit hard by catastrophic droughts that have occurred repeatedly over the last several decades. Recent assessments have shown that pastoralist communities in countries like Somalia, Ethiopia, and Kenya have seen cow populations drop by as much as 80% due to the severe effects of the current three-year drought. Millions of families have lost their last remaining cows, the source of milk and a means of subsistence for decades. Camels, on the other hand, have certain physiological features that make them more resilient to dry heat and drought, and they use less water and feed to make milk than cows do. Cattle only need water every day or two, whereas camels can spend up to two weeks without drinking and can lose 30% of their total weight. Because of these benefits, governments in East Africa have begun initiatives to distribute camels as a means of compensating for cattle losses and helping disadvantaged pastoral populations make the switch to camel milk. Quantitative analysis of livestock census data shows clear declines in cattle numbers over the last decade, whereas camel herds have steadily grown as farmers adopt them. Interviews and case studies with pastoralists substantiate direct economic benefits in terms of reliable milk yields and overall resilience to worsening droughts from keeping camels instead of traditional cattle breeds. Expanding camel dairy enterprises in the Middle East are also driving demand for camel milk, valued at $2 billion USD currently but with expectations to reach $13 billion by 2030 as a healthier alternative to cow milk. Interpretation of results strongly indicates that transitioning to camel pastoralism represents an important climate change adaptation strategy for East Africa moving forward. However, supporting smallholder farmers with veterinary services, access to markets, and integration with those retaining some cattle will necessitate appropriately designed policies. Additional research on sustainability and scaling considerations for large-scale camel dairies is needed to inform regional development programs. In conclusion, research unequivocally demonstrates the benefits of encouraging camel milk production; but, in order to fulfill the promise of "ships of the desert" in improving pastoralists' ability to adapt to growing aridity brought on by climate change throughout East Africa, a nuanced, context-specific strategy will be necessary.