Tehran – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in cooperation with Iran’s Ministry of Agriculture, has launched a new project to conserve endangered indigenous livestock breeds and strengthen rural livelihoods in northwest Iran.

 

Speaking at the project’s launch, FAO Representative Farrukh Toirov stressed the importance of native breeds in preserving biodiversity, enhancing climate resilience and supporting sustainable food production.

 

"The 18-month initiative will focus on community-based breeding programs, genetic conservation, rangeland restoration, livestock value chains and training for livestock keepers and technical experts."

Northwest Iran is home to several valuable indigenous breeds, including the Bactrian camel, Sarabi cattle, Mahabadi goat and Marakhaz goat, which are vital to local livelihoods and agricultural biodiversity.

 

A key component of the project is the economic empowerment of rural women through training, value-chain development and support for livestock-based enterprises.