By Harinder P.S. Makkar¹, Paul Opio², Joseph Matere³, Jay Angerer⁴, Luca Innocente⁵, Wamalwa Kinyanjui⁶, Cyril Ferrand², S. Munyua⁶

Seasonal feed shortages and inefficient feed use by pastoralist and agropastoralist communities are the major challenges affecting livestock productivity in East African countries. Studies have shown that the early actions provide high returns on investment. However, the early actions can only be taken with sound and timely information. A National Animal Feed Security System (NAFSS) that monitors animal feed and water availability, can play a vital role in alerting decision makers of the right time to implement early actions. It would also enhance efficiency of livestock production and make the livestock sector more resilient. A NAFSS is a complete set of an array of components, namely tools; and of procedures, facilities, skills, infrastructure, personnel, organizations, and institutions required to implement them. This article illustrates the components of such a system and the manner in which FAO and IGAD intend to operationalise it in East African countries.