SIAM Conference Highlights Livestock Reform and Food Security Challenges

A high-level conference at the 18th International Agricultural Exhibition of Morocco has focused on improving livestock systems and strengthening food security.

Source: moroccoworldnews

The event, held in Meknes on the second day of the exhibition, brought together government officials, experts, and industry stakeholders to discuss how animal production can adapt to climate pressure and changing market conditions.

Morocco’s Agriculture Minister, Ahmed El Bouari, said livestock remains central to the country’s agricultural policy under the Green Generation 2020–2030 plan. He noted that the sector contributes about 35 percent of agricultural GDP, supports nearly 1.2 million breeders, and generates around 135 million workdays each year. He added that recent droughts have reduced herd sizes and increased pressure on farmers.

Portugal’s Agriculture Minister, José Manuel Fernandes, called for stronger cooperation between countries, especially in water management, soil health, and agricultural research. He said both Morocco and Portugal face similar environmental challenges and can benefit from shared knowledge.

France’s Agriculture Minister, Annie Genevard, stressed the need to balance productivity with sustainability and public health, while Ivory Coast’s Bruno Nabagné Koné pointed to Morocco’s progress in research, soil management, and small-scale farming as a model for other African countries.

The conference also featured panel discussions on livestock resilience, food consumption patterns, and global meat market trends. Key areas identified for improvement include sustainable animal feed, farm modernization, genetic development, and better organization within the sector.

The SIAM exhibition runs from April 20 to April 28, with a broader focus on sustainability in agriculture.