Pastoralism, pathways to prosperity

Camels are resilient compared to other livestock due to their abilities to withstand drought. However a lack of animal disease testing facilities and services makes it difficult for herders to diagnose and treat against the many diseases affecting their camels.

These photos and texts are from young pastoralists that participated in a November 2024 ‘photovoice‘ project in Kenya

“Healthy animals contribute to healthy livelihoods and a prosperous economy.

But for camel keepers, there are many emerging diseases, and the herders find it challenging to get the cure.

Among the most common are seasonal flu, wryneck, mastitis, abortion and swollen head.

Scientists should investigate these diseases and provide vaccines to prevent further losses.”

Tumal Orto, Maikona

“I visited an elder in Boji Dera, whose camels were not in good condition.

When I explained to him about the photovoice project, he responded, ‘My animals have been sick for a long time, does this research help in camel disease treatment?

We cannot find medicine. We only rely on triaquin (an antibiotic used for treating trypanosomiasis) to treat everything. ”

Adan Shuna, Boji

These photos and text are from young pastoralists participating in a November 2024 ‘photovoice’ project in Kenya’s camel production chain.

See other thematic pages created from the participants’ images and narratives.

Download the full poster that was prepared for the 4th Pastoralist Leadership Summit in Wajir, Kenya, from 8-10 December 2024

Contact Tahira Mohamed for more information