Climate Change Impacts on Animal Health and Livestock Production in Badakhshan Province, Afghanistan

Abstract

Climate change is one of the most significant environmental and economic challenges of the present century, with substantial impacts on livestock systems and rural livelihoods. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of climate change on animal health and livestock production in Badakhshan Province, Afghanistan. This research was conducted as a descriptive–analytical study using a survey method. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale from livestock farmers and officials of the Department of Agriculture. A total of 384 respondents participated in the study. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics in SPSS software. The findings indicate that drought, water scarcity, reduction in natural fodder, degradation of rangelands, and extreme weather variations are the main factors affecting livestock activities. Specifically, 80.2% of respondents reported very high impacts of drought on livestock systems, while 90.1% indicated severe reductions in pasture areas due to climate change. In addition, an increase in animal diseases, limited access to veterinary services, and shortages of vaccines and medicines were identified as major challenges in animal health. In terms of livestock production, reductions in milk and meat production, increased costs, and decreased farmers’ income were observed. Overall, the results show that climate change has had significant negative impacts on the sustainability of livestock systems and the economic conditions of livestock farmers in the study area.  These findings highlight the need for effective climate adaptation strategies, improved veterinary services, and sustainable livestock management practices to enhance the resilience of livestock-dependent communities in Badakhshan Province.