CÔTE D’IVOIRE – Abidjan hosted the third edition of the Abidjan Livestock Summit (SELAB-Livestock Show) from November 22 to 24, 2024, showcasing its potential as a hub for Africa’s livestock sector.
Held at the Abidjan Exhibition Park, the summit brought together international players in the livestock industry under the theme “Maximize Your Livestock Farming”, with Brazil as the country of honour.
Ivory Coast’s Minister of Animal Resources and Fisheries, Sidi Tiémoko Touré, emphasised the summit’s importance in advancing animal production across Africa.
He emphasised that this year’s event will promote animal production and adapt valuable lessons from Brazil’s experience to African realities.
By drawing lessons from Brazil’s globally recognised agricultural model, SELAB aims to inspire African countries to adopt innovative practices that boost productivity and sustainability.
Exhibitions, animal competitions, high-level panels, and specialised training sessions formed the backbone of the event, offering participants a chance to explore transformative solutions.
Brazil’s Ambassador, Jose Carlos de Arujo Leitao, highlighted his nation’s journey from being a food importer to one of the world’s top exporters within four decades.
This transformation underscores the possibilities for Africa’s livestock industry when innovation, investment, and policy alignment converge.
Brazil’s pavilion showcased advanced breeding techniques, feed technology, and sustainable practices at the summit.
At the summit, the National Agency for Support to Rural Development (ANADER) was pivotal in promoting local livestock innovations such as the Djallonké sheep and cane rat farming.
These initiatives are tailored to Ivory Coast’s climate and consumer preferences, with added socio-economic benefits like youth employment. ANADER’s programs have demonstrated that small-scale livestock farming can be profitable and environmentally sustainable.
Building international partnerships
The summit also served as a bridge for fostering partnerships between African and international stakeholders.
Minister Touré also called upon foreign nations to establish specialised business pavilions focusing on livestock and animal production to facilitate market exploration in the Ivory Coast.
The event underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing challenges like food security, employment, and market access.
From high-profile ministerial participation to insightful panels and training, SELAB-LIVESTOCK SHOW 2024 reaffirmed its position as a must-attend event for livestock professionals.
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