Economic Effects of Livestock Disease Burden in Ethiopia
Author Information
Author(s): Amanda M. Countryman, Tais C. de Menezes, Dustin L. Pendell, Jonathan Rushton, Thomas L. Marsh
Primary Institution: Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, Colorado State University
Hypothesis
What are the economic effects of livestock disease burden in Ethiopia?
Conclusion
Improved animal health may increase Ethiopian GDP by up to 3.6%, improving national welfare by approximately $2.5 billion.
Supporting Evidence
- Ethiopia has the largest livestock population in Africa.
- Animal disease negatively affects domestic livestock production.
- Improved animal health can lead to significant economic benefits.
Takeaway
If animals in Ethiopia are healthier, the country can make more money from farming and help people live better lives.
Methodology
The study used a computable general equilibrium model alongside animal health loss estimates to simulate economic effects.
Limitations
The study does not account for the costs of interventions needed to achieve improvements in animal health.
Participant Demographics
The study focuses on livestock producers in Ethiopia, particularly smallholder farmers.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website