Milk without borders: Food and nutrition security, income and employment

Background

In the SKBo cross-border region (Sikasso, Korogho, Bobo-Dioulasso) between Mali, Burkina Faso, and Côte d’Ivoire, livestock farming is a central livelihood for many families. Milk production and sales provide income and food, but low productivity, lack of access to veterinary services, and recurring food insecurity make daily life difficult for many households.

Objective

The project strengthens local milk production and improves the processing and marketing of animal products. This will strengthen the income, food security, and resilience of vulnerable communities in the long term.

Approach

VSF-Suisse strengthens the entire local dairy sector—from livestock farming to marketing. Livestock farmers receive training on animal health, feeding, and sustainable production methods to improve yields and quality.

At the same time, we promote local value chains, strengthen collaboration among stakeholders, and improve access to veterinary services. Vaccination campaigns and preventive measures protect people and animals from disease and reinforce the One Health approach in the region.

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