Climate change and livestock production in Sub-Saharan Africa: Effects and transmission channels

Abstract

This article assesses the effect of climate change on livestock production in Sub-Saharan Africa, for a sample of 45 countries over the period 2000–2021. Using a two-factor fixed effects panel data model, our results obtained by the two-way fixed effects estimator show that (i) climate change negatively influences livestock production through high temperatures, while abundant rainfall is beneficial. (ii) Through transmission channels, we find that maize price volatility exacerbates the negative effect of rising temperatures on livestock production, while it reduces the beneficial effect of abundant rainfall. Furthermore, we find that water availability mitigates the adverse effect of rising temperatures on livestock, while enhancing the beneficial effect of rainfall on livestock. Finally, we concede that conflicts reduce the beneficial effect of rainfall on livestock production. To increase livestock production in Sub-Saharan Africa, we recommend: the practice of pastoralism, based on the production of plants and fodder adapted to climate change, the improvement of animal nutrition, and the inclusion of breeders in the decision-making process in the cattle industry.