From Drought to Prosperity: Transforming Livestock Farming in Puntland Through Fodder Production

“Before, I never thought about fodder farming. We used to take our animals to graze in the open, and they often suffered during droughts. Now, with access to homegrown fodder, our livestock have a stable food source. Their weight has improved, they produce more milk, and we no longer have to migrate in search of pasture.” Mukhtar Omar Ahmed, Head of Galdora Cooperative. 

In Somalia, where conflict and harsh, unpredictable climatic conditions have disrupted agro-pastoralist livelihoods for decades, a quiet agricultural revolution is taking shape.

Millions of displaced communities live in camps set up for Internally Displaced People (IDPs) across the Horn of Africa, as recurrent droughts continue to erode any hope of returning to normal life.

However, in El-Buuh town, located in the Sanaag region of Puntland, farmers are pioneering an innovative solution—growing and harvesting nutritious fodder to sustain their livestock year-round.

Through the Response Initiative for Somalia Emergencies (RISE) project, implemented by Sadar Development Institute in partnership with IFAD and the Somali government, local farmers have been empowered to cultivate fodder, ushering in a new era of resilience and self-sufficiency.

A Lifeline for Farmers and Pastoralists

For years, farmers and livestock herders in El-Buuh, like many across Somalia, faced immense challenges—limited pasture, unreliable rainfall, and declining livestock productivity. However, with the introduction of fodder farming, the tide is turning.

“Before receiving support from Sadar Development Institute, I had no knowledge of growing fodder,” says Fatuma Ahmed Hussein, a member of the Galdora Cooperative.

“Our livestock suffered during droughts, and we often lost animals in large numbers. But now, with the ability to grow and store fodder, we are securing food for our animals and ensuring their survival.”

Through the project, farmers received training, high-quality seeds, and irrigation support, enabling them to cultivate nutrient-rich fodder. This innovation has dramatically improved livestock health and productivity.

Boosting Livestock Productivity

Fodder cultivation has proven to be a game-changer for local herders. Hiirad Abdi, another beneficiary, highlights the drastic improvement in livestock health since adopting the new feeding methods.

“Previously, our animals were weak, and milk production was low. Now, with the fodder we grow, our goats are healthier, producing more milk, and we are even selling the surplus,” he explains.

This transformation is not limited to a few farmers. Across El-Buuh, those who have practiced fodder farming for two years report significant increases in livestock weight, milk yield, and breeding rates—leading to higher household incomes and better nutrition for families.

Economic and Social Impact

Beyond food security, fodder production has created new economic opportunities for farmers. Many, like Mohamud Ahmed Nur, have expanded their farming businesses.

“This project has changed our lives. We no longer depend on expensive animal feed from distant markets. Instead, we produce our own fodder and even sell to others. Our income has grown, and our families are better off,” he shares.

Women Leading the Way in Fodder Farming 

This innovative practice has also empowered women—who are often the backbone of Somali rural communities—to take on a more active economic role. Fatuma Ahmed Hussein highlights how fodder farming has provided financial independence for women.

“I can now contribute to my family’s income and support my children’s education. Farming is not just for men—we, too, have a role in securing a better future,” she says proudly.

Sustainability and Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, farmers like Mukhtar Omar Ahmed, head of the Galdora Cooperative, envision even greater progress.

“We now understand the power of modern livestock farming. With continued support, we aim to expand our farms, improve irrigation, and reach more markets,” he states.

However, he emphasizes the need for further investment in farming equipment and water access to ensure the long-term sustainability of their success.

A Model for Resilience and Growth

The success of fodder production in Puntland is a testament to the power of sustainable development and the transformative impact of Sadar’s resilience interventions. By combining innovation, training, and local ownership, the project has turned a once-struggling region into a model of resilience, productivity, and hope for agro-pastoralist communities across Somalia.