Constraints of Livestock Sector Development and Low Economic Contribution to The Economy of Afghanistan

This manuscript explores issues related to constraints of livestock sector development and low economic contribution to the economy of Afghanistan. Livestock is a fundamental part of agriculture with the contribution of live animals and their products. In Afghanistan, most of the country's poor people are living in rural areas that are primarily dependent on this sector. Meanwhile, food costs, in general, and livestock product prices determine the cost of living for the urban poor. The agriculture and livestock sector employs about 80% of the population in Afghanistan; therefore, the income per capita must be strongly influenced by the income levels of this sector. Animals are a source of human diets, income, and employment. Considering the large livestock population of Afghanistan, its contribution to the country's economy is still low. In contrast, the country has no clear, applicable policies and strategies for livestock development. The traditional methods of livestock management and production, poor feeding, minor health care, poor breeds, lack of suitable institutions and technologies, poor services and low capital investment in humans, and lack of development policies are becoming major factors in the poor performance of the livestock sector in Afghanistan. Despite some improvements in the livestock sector in recent years, the sector remains regressive. Thus, continuous assurance is needed to reduce the limitations and increase the sector's economic contribution. Afghanistan's development depends on rural residents’ financial self-sufficiency and high income.