Traditional milking in Uganda. Surveys in sub-Saharan Africa indicates that many families are forced to sell animals to cover medical expenses or funeral costs. The slaughter or sale of these animals reduces the herd size Photo: R Faidutti/FAO

The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is calling for more research on the effects and consequences of HIV/AIDS on livestock production. FAO warns that the disease is negatively affecting livestock production, particularly in poor countries.

It says that the disease is taking "a dramatic toll" on livestock production, which is the main source of income in rural households, especially in African countries. As more of the working population is affected by AIDS, there are fewer people available to tend to livestock.

FAO says that research could help to develop new strategies to minimize the impact of AIDS on vulnerable households, communities and the livestock sector itself.

Household surveys in sub-Saharan Africa indicate that many families are forced to sell animals after savings have been used up to cover medical expenses or funeral costs. The slaughter or sale of these animals reduces the herd size, resulting in fewer livestock products available for food or sale. Smaller herds can also reduce the available breeding stock, which could have an adverse effect on animal genetic resources.

Simon Mack, senior officer in FAO's Livestock Production Group, said that in Zambia, for example, it was previously rare for HIV-affected households to sell a heifer or dairy cow, but now it was common. A high incidence of HIV/AIDS means that veterinary services can "no longer function properly because of the impact of the disease on staffing and skills levels", he added.

FAO says that more work is needed to help affected communities fully appreciate the contribution that livestock can actually make in lessening the impact of the disease. Poultry, sheep and goats can provide renewable assets and income, and help to improve diets, notes FAO. These species are easy to manage, affordable and have short reproduction cycles, and most women in rural areas are experienced in managing them.

The agency says that simple, low-cost projects could improve the productivity of small animals through better housing, feeding and animal health care.

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