In the vast and dynamic landscape of Ethiopia’s extensive production system, a recent study has shed light on the intricate web of stakeholders involved in Community-Based Breeding Programs (CBBP) and Animal Health Interventions (AHI). Led by Assemu Tesfa from the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at Bahir Dar University, the research, published in the journal ‘Pastoralism’ (which translates to ‘Pastoralism’ in English), offers a comprehensive analysis of the political economy and stakeholder dynamics that could significantly impact the future of animal agriculture in the region.
The study identified a total of 43 stakeholders, with 13 playing a role in both CBBP and AHI. These stakeholders range from governmental and non-governmental organizations to private sector entities and projects. The research employed the Institutional Analysis and Development Framework, which involves context analysis, application of stakeholder analysis methods, and action. One of the key tools used was the power and interest matrix analysis, which helped prioritize stakeholders based on their influence and interest in the interventions.
“Understanding the formal and informal linkages, the power and influence of actors, and the outcome attained through the joint contributions of these stakeholders is crucial,” Tesfa emphasized. The study found that stakeholders such as the Ministry of Agriculture, national and regional research institutes, and projects like the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas and Health of Ethiopian Animals for Rural Development (HEARD), wield significant power and interest in both interventions.
The research also highlighted several strategic gaps that need to be addressed for the successful implementation of CBBP and AHI. These include the absence of strong and continuous monitoring and evaluation, lack of sustainable financial support, and low levels of interest among stakeholders supporting the interventions technically.
One of the compelling findings of the study is the potential for privatizing animal health services through graduate veterinarians. This could enable access to wider areas of pastoralists and small ruminant producers, thereby enhancing the overall impact of animal health interventions.
The study’s insights could shape future developments in the field by fostering increased collaboration among stakeholders. As Tesfa noted, “Increased collaboration in interventions could generate synergistic effects, reduce conflicts of interest, and strengthen accountability between and among stakeholders.” This collaborative approach could lead to more effective and sustainable animal breeding and health programs, ultimately benefiting the extensive production system in Ethiopia.
The research also underscores the importance of periodically sensitizing stakeholders with high power but low interest to leverage their influence for the sustainability of the interventions. By addressing these strategic gaps and fostering collaboration, the study paves the way for more robust and impactful community-based breeding programs and animal health interventions in Ethiopia.
As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, the findings of this study serve as a valuable guide for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners. By understanding the political economy and stakeholder dynamics, they can work towards creating more effective and sustainable interventions that benefit both the animals and the communities that depend on them.