Niger is scaling up its efforts to improve animal health and strengthen its livestock sector with a large-scale free vaccination campaign. Officially launched on Tuesday in Korankassa Peulh by the Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Mahamane Elhadj Ousmane, this initiative underscores the government’s commitment to a critical sector for the country’s economy and food security. The campaign aims to vaccinate nearly 95% of cattle and small ruminants—over 41 million animals—and 35% of camels, targeting devastating transboundary animal diseases such as Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) and Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP). These efforts highlight Niger’s dedication to protecting and sustainably developing its livestock, a cornerstone of its economic resilience and a vital lifeline for its rural communities.
The socioeconomic importance of livestock for Niger’s poor
For millions of Nigeriens, livestock represents much more than an economic activity—it is a lifeline. The sector contributes approximately 11% to the national GDP and supports nearly 87% of the rural population, many of whom live below the poverty line. Livestock provides essential resources such as milk, meat, and hides, which are not only consumed locally but also traded regionally. In addition to direct income, livestock acts as a form of “mobile wealth” for rural households, offering financial security during crises, funding education, and enabling access to essential services. Women and youth, in particular, benefit from small ruminant farming, which is often a primary source of income for these vulnerable groups.
However, diseases like PPR disproportionately impact these poor communities, leading to significant economic losses, reduced productivity, and weakened food security. The vaccination campaign is therefore not only a health initiative but also a critical social and economic intervention aimed at safeguarding the livelihoods of Niger’s most vulnerable populations.
A comprehensive approach to livestock protection
To ensure the campaign’s success, Niger’s government has mobilized significant resources. Sufficient stocks of vaccines, compliant with international standards, have been secured, and a logistical network has been established to reach even the most remote areas. Trained teams of veterinarians, technicians, and animal health workers are coordinating the field operations. “Mastering animal health is the key to the success of any livestock production,” stated the minister at the launch, emphasizing the campaign’s role in safeguarding both economic stability and food security.
The initiative also benefits from robust support from international partners such as the FAO, the World Bank, and the International Committee of the Red Cross. These organizations provide funding, technical expertise, and logistical assistance, enhancing Niger’s capacity to prevent and manage animal health crises.
The vaccination drive aligns with global and African strategies to eradicate PPR by 2030, championed by the FAO and WOAH. Through proven methods such as mass vaccination and seromonitoring, Niger is actively contributing to the broader effort to eliminate transboundary diseases and strengthen animal health systems across the continent.
Beyond vaccination: Strengthening livelihoods and resilience
The campaign’s scope extends beyond immediate disease prevention. Measures like marking vaccinated animals and conducting regular seromonitoring are being implemented to ensure the durability of results. Awareness campaigns are also engaging livestock owners, empowering them to adopt better health practices and protect their herds. Authorities are concurrently improving veterinary infrastructure and establishing rapid response systems to mitigate future outbreaks.
By safeguarding animal health, the campaign provides a foundation for stable food supplies and income for rural households. Livestock remains one of the most accessible and reliable sources of income for Niger’s poorest populations. Ensuring its health bolsters household resilience, enables access to essential services, and supports local and regional markets. For women and youth, who often rely on small ruminant farming as their primary economic activity, this campaign represents a critical investment in their future.
A vision for a resilient future
More than just a health initiative, this vaccination campaign represents a strategic investment in Niger’s rural economy and its most vulnerable populations. Protecting livestock against diseases secures livelihoods, stabilizes incomes, and strengthens food security for millions. By aligning its efforts with international goals, Niger is not only contributing to the global fight against transboundary animal diseases but also building a resilient agricultural and pastoral economy. This comprehensive approach underscores the nation’s commitment to ensuring that livestock—an invaluable asset for its poorest citizens—remains a sustainable pillar of economic and social development.
