Why is livestock important to Niger’s economy?

Livestock is a vital sector of the agricultural economy in Niger and serves as a major export for the country. Cattle, sheep, and goats are primarily raised to provide meat, milk, and hides.1

For many rural inhabitants, particularly nomadic groups such as the Fulani and Tuareg, livestock is essential for subsistence. These pastoralists rely on their herds for food—with the Fulani subsisting largely on milk and the Tuareg on meat—and maintain a traditional way of life that involves seasonal migration to find grazing land and water.2

The economic importance of this sector is also reflected in the establishment of regional livestock markets, such as the one in Tahoua, which serves as a key meeting point for pastoralists and farmers. However, the country's ability to maintain its livestock production is highly dependent on rainfall; periods of drought can lead to significant losses, necessitating government intervention and food aid.21