Al-Marj – The Head of the Veterinary Syndicate in Al-Marj, Marwan Saad Al-Abd Al-Asbali, warned of a serious deterioration. This deterioration threatens the livestock sector in Al-Marj and Al-Jabal al-Akhdar regions. He confirmed that current conditions could lead to a real food security crisis. Urgent measures must be taken to support breeders and protect local production.
Al-Asbali explained to Al-Anbaa Al-Libya newspaper that breeders in the region face increasing pressures. These pressures result from rising prices of feed and veterinary medicines. There is a lack of sufficient support for local producers. This situation forces many breeders to reduce their activities. Some are even leaving the sector entirely.
He noted one of the most serious challenges threatening the future of livestock. Some breeders resort to slaughtering female sheep. They are unable to provide feed. The slaughter of females leads to a loss of ability to sustain local breeds. It also causes a rapid decline in herd numbers.
He also pointed to indicators of depletion of local male sheep. This occurs through smuggling operations or intensive purchasing. This contrasts with a clear decline in herd numbers within farms. He questioned the parties benefiting from this depletion. This poses a threat to the country’s livestock.
Regarding the poultry sector, Al-Asbali indicated a sharp decline in the number of farms in Al-Marj city. Their number dropped from 187 farms to just 38. This indicator reflects the magnitude of challenges facing breeders.
He also warned of the spread of some diseases among herds. There is an increase in abortions and diarrhea among newborns. This is due to a shortage of vaccines. There is also an absence of an organized pharmaceutical system. Additionally, there is a lack of sufficient veterinary laboratories and government centers. These are needed to monitor animal health and provide services to breeders.
Al-Asbali affirmed that livestock represents a fundamental pillar of food security. He called on concerned authorities to take urgent measures. These include supporting feed, providing vaccines, and preventing animal smuggling. They also include enhancing government veterinary services.
He concluded his statement by emphasizing that saving small breeders and protecting local breeds is a national necessity. He called for serious action to preserve the remaining livestock in the country.