Follow us on Facebook

Walaw

Agriculture

Camel Breeding Takes Center Stage at International Conference in Laayoune

Tuesday 15 - 09:20

Zoom

In a significant move to boost sustainable agriculture and rural economies across Africa, global experts have convened in Laayoune, Morocco, for the International Conference on Camelids. The three-day event, running from October 14 to 16, aims to explore innovative approaches to camel breeding and its potential to transform agricultural practices in arid regions.

Hosted at the African Institute for Sustainable Agriculture Research (ASARI) in Foum El Oued, the conference is a collaborative effort organized by the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), ASARI, and supported by the Phosboucraa Foundation. The timing of the event is particularly significant, as the United Nations has designated 2024 as the International Year of Camelids, recognizing the crucial role these animals play in sustaining millions of families in harsh desert environments.

Lamfeddal Kouisni, Director of ASARI, set the tone for the conference in his opening remarks, emphasizing the need for international collaboration to advance strategies that enhance camel production. "Camels are a vital resource that has yet to divulge its secrets," Kouisni stated, underlining the untapped potential of camelids in sustainable agriculture.

The importance of the camel industry to the region was further emphasized by Abdeslam Bekrate, Wali of Laayoune Sakia El Hamra. Bekrate highlighted Laayoune's role as a center for camel breeding and its potential to drive local development. He stressed the cultural significance of camels, stating, "We can't imagine a desert without camels and camels without desert."

Karima Sghiri, General Secretary of the Phosboucraa Foundation, discussed the foundation's support for agricultural initiatives in southern Morocco. She emphasized how the camel industry aligns with regional efforts to promote sustainable farming practices, balancing environmental concerns with local economic needs.

The conference agenda covers a wide range of topics, including the challenges facing the camel industry in Morocco, socio-economic aspects of camel breeding, and innovative production systems. Panels and discussions are set to explore how advancements in genetics, nutrition, and physiology can be combined with local knowledge to promote sustainable improvements in camel farming.

Throughout the event, experts will address the impact of climate change on camel farming and discuss strategies to overcome production challenges through the implementation of new technologies. The economic potential of camel breeding in different regions will be examined, with a particular focus on its contribution to sustainable agriculture. Special attention will be given to opportunities for camel industry development in southern Morocco.

As the conference progresses, it promises to provide valuable insights into the camel industry, its challenges, and its growth potential. The gathering of international experts in Laayoune underscores Morocco's commitment to developing sustainable agricultural practices and fostering economic growth in its southern regions.

This event marks a significant step towards recognizing and harnessing the potential of camelids in addressing food security, income growth, and ecosystem preservation challenges across Africa and other arid regions of the world. As discussions unfold, the outcomes of this conference could pave the way for transformative approaches to agriculture in some of the planet's most challenging environments.