On May 26, 2025, during the Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank (AfDB), a high-level panel was held at the Sofitel Ivoire hotel in Abidjan to debate climate finance levers capable of sustainably transforming the livestock sector in Africa. G2P International supported GIZ in the organization and preparation of this strategic side event, assisting with mobilizing expertise and structuring key messages.
Titled "Accelerating Climate Finance for Sustainable Livestock in Africa", the panel brought together about one hundred decision-makers, experts, funders, and sector representatives. The event was co-organized by GIZ, CGIAR/ILRI, CORAF, AU-IBAR and AfDB, aiming to identify concrete pathways to better integrate livestock into international climate mechanisms.
The discussions highlighted how livestock, while essential to the rural economy, food security, and livelihoods, remains vulnerable to climate shocks and is a significant source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Speakers advocated for a transition to more sustainable livestock practices: pasture management, improved animal nutrition, veterinary health, and the valorization of organic waste.
The discussions also shed light on challenges related to financing, governance, and structuring bankable projects in animal sectors. Representatives from AfDB, the Global Methane Hub, AU-IBAR, and the Ecological Monitoring Centre called for innovative financing mechanisms that incorporate the realities of smallholder farmers, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas.
Finally, the panel laid the foundations for a common roadmap, emphasizing the need for alignment between national policies, regional strategies, and climate finance opportunities. The multi-stakeholder approach — involving states, funders, research centers, the private sector and livestock farmers — was recognized as essential to building resilient, inclusive, and low-carbon animal value chains.
