2018年-查塔姆研究所_Livestock_Trade_in_the_Horn_of_Africa_10页_117kb

Africa Programme Seminar Report Summary

Core Content

This document summarizes a seminar held at Chatham House on 19 October 2010, which launched two briefing papers on livestock trade in the Horn of Africa. The seminar discussed the economic, political, and social dynamics of the livestock trade across Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia, as well as the role of regional institutions and external factors in shaping the trade.

Main Points

Livestock Trade Overview

• The livestock trade in the Horn of Africa has shown resilience despite regional conflicts.
• Trade routes and markets have adapted to political instability and external changes.
• The trade is not just a local phenomenon but has international implications, especially with markets in the Middle East and beyond.

Key Regions and Dynamics

• Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia: Despite conflicts, trade between these countries has increased, supported by strong economic, political, and social ties among Somali communities.
• Somaliland, Djibouti, and Puntland: These regions have become important trade hubs, especially with the emergence of Djibouti as a key export point due to improved veterinary systems and political relations.
• Colonial Legacy: The trade is influenced by the colonial history of the region, with Somali communities spanning multiple countries and their economic systems straddling borders.

Trade Resilience and Adaptation

• Livestock trade has adapted to external shocks such as the Saudi Arabian ban on imports and the growth of meat consumption in urban centers.
• New markets for camels and alternative routes have emerged, showing the trade's flexibility and dynamism.
• The trade has evolved from informal to a more formalized system, with some regions like Bossaso attracting traders through low taxation policies.

Regional and Global Implications

• The trade is linked to global meat demand, especially from countries like China and India, offering potential for new supply routes.
• The livestock trade is not the main driver of conflict but has adapted to existing conflicts.
• The role of diaspora traders and their integration into local economies is increasing, with significant investments in cities like Mombasa and Nairobi.

Institutional and Policy Challenges

• The Horn lacks a unified regional institution to manage livestock trade effectively.
• Policies such as the Saudi ban have shifted trade dynamics, with some traders gaining monopolies.
• There is a need for a holistic approach to regional trade, including improved border management and political will for common policies.

Key Information

• Trade Resilience: Despite conflict, the livestock trade remains robust and adaptable.
• Regional Dynamics: The trade involves multiple actors, including clans, governments, and non-state entities, with varying degrees of influence.
• Economic Impact: Livestock trade is crucial for livelihoods, especially in rural areas, and contributes to regional economic development.
• Future Concerns: Increasing urbanization may shift trade patterns, and there is a risk of conflict over land and resources.
• Policy Recommendations: A common veterinary inspection scheme, improved regional institutions, and a focus on supporting small-scale traders are essential for sustainable trade development.

Authors and Contributors

• Hussein A Mahmoud: Examines the livestock trade between Kenya, Somalia, and Ethiopia, highlighting the role of clans and political dynamics.
• Nisar Majid: Focuses on trade in Somaliland, Ethiopia, and Djibouti, emphasizing the impact of the Saudi ban and new market trends.
• Luca Ciabarri: Discusses the evolving nature of the trade and its relationship with urbanization and regional politics.
• Sally Healy: Highlights the historical and political context of the trade, including the role of diaspora and regional identities.
• Cedric Barnes: Provides insights on UK policy perspectives and the need for regional cooperation and institutional development.

Conclusion

The livestock trade in the Horn of Africa remains a vital economic activity, with significant implications for regional security, poverty alleviation, and international markets. While it has adapted to conflict and political instability, its future depends on effective regional governance, improved infrastructure, and supportive policies that recognize its importance to both local and global economies.