Livestock early warning information resource in the Horn of Africa: Forage and livestock marketing information analysis and forecasts

Outlook on Agriculture;36(4): 267-272

The Livestock Early Warning System (LEWS) project, now transformed into the Livestock Information Network and Knowledge System (LINKS), of the Global Livestock Collaborative Research Support Program led by Texas A&M University has developed robust forage monitoring and livestock market information systems covering the eastern African region. The two systems systematically and continuously collect and deliver timely information on forage supplies, and forecast livestock market prices and volume trends to stakeholders. The analysis and the suite of products generated are intended to enable pastoral communities to respond to crises and thus protect livelihoods, communities'; assets and their ability to subsist in harsh environments, by triggering appropriate and timely responses. This article describes the development methodology, implementation structure and application of these early warning products.