The Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have launched a new program to help farmers in Africa deal with climate change. The program, called the Climate-Resilient Animal Fund (RECAF), is worth CAD11.45 million. It will support small livestock farmers by helping them reduce harmful emissions, improve animal health and productivity, and adapt to changing weather.
In many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, livestock are very important. They provide food, income, and support during tough times. But climate change is making it harder to raise healthy animals. Hotter temperatures, less predictable rain, and poor grazing land are just a few of the problems farmers are facing.
RECAF will focus on eight African countries that are especially vulnerable: Benin, Kenya, Uganda, Botswana, South Africa, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, and Togo. These countries were chosen after talking to local communities and experts to understand where help is needed most.
The program will be led by researchers based in the Global South. It will focus on two main goals:
- Creating climate-smart solutions – such as better animal feeds, stronger breeds, and improved animal care.
- Scaling up proven ideas – by finding ways to deliver and grow the use of these solutions across farming communities.
By helping small farmers raise healthier animals while dealing with climate change, RECAF aims to improve food security and incomes. This program shows that with the right tools and local leadership, farmers can build stronger, more sustainable futures—even in a changing climate. Learn more about this initiative
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