The prevalence of undernourishment in Africa has increased significantly over recent decades, with nearly one in five people experiencing hunger in 2022. Within the continent, 94 percent of those affected live in the Southern African region, where food insecurity levels are significantly higher among women.Cattle ownership is increasingly recognized as a vital tool for improving rural livelihoods. Owning even a single unit of cattle can significantly enhance household wealth in Southern African countries, in line with efforts to reduce poverty, eradicate hunger and promote gender equality. However, its potential remains underutilized, as it is rarely integrated into comprehensive strategies addressing multiple key aspects of well-being, such as income generation, food security, and nutrition. This policy brief, based on economic analyses, identifies actionable opportunities for policymakers and stakeholders to drive sustainable livestock transformation in Southern Africa. These actions aim to enhance household well-being, with a particular focus on supporting female-headed households.
