Special Programme: Crossbreeding Dairy Goats in Djibouti

A Path to Climate-Resilient Nutrition and Livelihoods

In partnership with the Government of Djibouti, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the World Bank, EAFF introduced a pioneering dairy goat crossbreeding programme aimed at improving milk production, nutrition, and farmer incomes while responding to the devastating impacts of drought.

The initiative introduced Kenya Alpine goats for crossbreeding with local Djiboutian goats to improve productivity and resilience in harsh climatic conditions.

Programme Results

• Initial investment of USD 75,000, growing to an estimated value exceeding USD 1.2 million;
• A four-year breeding programme involving 45 goats, producing 5,896 crossbred goats;
• Improved milk productivity and household nutrition;
• Increased resilience to drought and livestock loss;
• 565 farmers directly benefited.

The programme remains a strong example of climate-smart livestock development for nutrition and economic resilience in arid regions.