Characterisation of camel breeding practices in the Ansongo Region, Mali

Despite its importance in Mali’s economy,
camel breeding in the country remains poorly documented,
impeding effective policy-making in this regard.
This study consisted in a 3-month survey and aimed
at characterising camel breeding systems in Ansongo, in
the region of Gao, Mali. It highlights the diversity of
strategies adopted by breeders and their evolutions.
Supplementary feeding and veterinary care were seldom
practised. In zones close to the Niger River, cattle were
substituted to camels. Transhumance routes also are
modified but mobility keeps its vital role in the breeding
system. Important differences within the study region
in the classification of camel breeds have been
reported that will influence the implementation of a
collective action for animal genetic improvement. The
improvement goals should take the actual management,
including mobility and the mixed nature of the herds
into account.