How Livestock farming could transform Algeria’s economy and health ?
Livestock farming can be a game changer for the country’s economy, but only if more effort and funding are invested in it. According to experts, Algeria is widely capable of surpassing the stage of food security and should aim for stable nutritional security based on balanced and affordable food. Furthermore, animal husbandry represents nearly half of the agricultural income, making it a cornerstone of food sovereignty.
Digging deeper into the subject, beyond the fact that it is a golden goose for economic growth, it also represents a crucial element in the well-being and healthy development of the population, from the youngest to the oldest citizens, who need their daily dose of proteins. Unfortunately, this is becoming increasingly difficult because of the high prices of meat and Omega-3 products, which are slowly turning into a luxury. Algerian eating habits are not particularly healthy, as there is an overconsumption of calories compared to an underconsumption of proteins. A simple Algerian citizen is more likely to consume around 3,451 calories per day, mostly in the form of sugary delights, greasy food, and cereals, far above the recommended average of 2,500 calories per day. Meanwhile, protein intake remains extremely below average: an Algerian consumes around 29 grams of protein daily, whereas the standard ranges between 35 and 45 grams.
The ultimate goal is to improve citizens’ eating habits by setting targets of 90 liters of milk, 180 eggs, 18 kg of white meat, and 18 kg of red meat per inhabitant each year, creating a more balanced lifestyle. Another issue slowing down the livestock farming boom is the considerable dependence on imports, including maize and soy, alongside 42% of animal proteins imported from abroad. Yet, this reliance is slowly but surely decreasing thanks to the involvement of the agricultural ministry, which is making life easier for farmers by easing taxes and providing essential support for the agricultural sector to grow.
The agricultural sector’s to-do list is crystal clear: improving animal feed, developing high genetics, reinforcing animal health, and giving a major push to the modernization of livestock farming systems. All the ingredients are there to boost both the population’s well-being and healthy growth, while also giving Algeria’s economy a much-needed shot in the arm.
Rasha.S