Advancing sustainable livestock ILRI corporate report 2026

In 2024, ILRI set out a bold new Corporate Strategy that committed us to impacting the lives of more than 300 million people.  The strategy recognizes that for 1.7 billion people, their animals—goats, sheep, cows, chickens, pigs and more—are not just a source of food. They are savings accounts, insurance policies, and in many cases pathways out of poverty. Yet the systems that sustain livestock are under mounting pressure from climate shocks, from rising food and fuel costs, and from persistent failure to recognize livestock’s true potential to be part of the solution.  

Against the background of both livestock’s immense potential and the challenges the sector faces, we are pleased to share with you the results from the first year of implementing our new strategy.  

This report showcases how ILRI-powered solutions for transitioning to climate-smart, productive, and inclusive livestock systems not only boost livestock performance, food safety, animal and human health, incomes, and entire economies—they also protect our environment and planet. The report highlights how ILRI’s researchers are proving that evidence and innovations bring real, tangible benefits to the people who need it most.  

Groundbreaking research is also transforming the story of livestock and climate, moving away from a focus on burden and towards opportunity and solutions.  Through lower-emission feeds, drought-tolerant and low-methane forages, and the enormous carbon storage potential of the world's rangelands, livestock systems are becoming part of how we solve the climate crisis.  

This year—as the world formally recognizes the role of rangelands and pastoralists—momentum for change is building. Every day, we see our partners commit to innovations, investments, and policies in favor of more productive, more resilient livestock systems. National governments in Nigeria and Madagascar have moved from aspiration to action, advancing livestock masterplans that chart a course towards stronger economies, more resilient livelihoods, and better diets. Globally, policymakers are listening too: ILRI’s advocacy helped shift the UN Declaration on Non-Communicable Diseases to ensure the world’s poorest people are not denied the nutritional benefits of milk and meat.  

This progress toward sustainable livestock systems is encouraging. But the pace is not keeping up with the mounting challenges we face. While animal-sourced foods are essential to a healthy diet, today’s rising food prices force families to cut down on meat and dairy. Accelerating climate change threatens to halve milk and meat production in Africa and Asia. If we do not act, hundreds of millions of people will lose both their livelihoods and access to essential nutrition. 

Funding for both agricultural research and development is shrinking at the very moment when it’s needed the most. The gap between what is possible and what is happening is not a scientific problem. The science works, and everyone, from communities to governments, is ready to act.  What is needed now is the sustained commitment and support of funders, investors, and partners willing to close the gap between ambition and impact.