Investing in camels: A neglected opportunity. A workshop report on finalization of a concept note

This report presents the proceedings and outcomes of a regional workshop held on 4-5 May 2026 in Nairobi, Kenya, to finalize a concept note on investment in camel value chains across Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia. The workshop brought together representatives from government, research institutions, development partners, producer organizations, and the private sector to identify key constraints, investment opportunities, and strategic priorities for camel sector development. Discussions highlighted the growing importance of camels in supporting food and nutrition security, climate resilience, livelihoods, trade, and economic growth in dryland areas. Participants identified critical challenges related to animal health, feed resources, infrastructure, market access, financing, research, and policy support. The workshop proposed a regional investment framework built around seven priority pillars, including animal health, production systems, infrastructure, markets, research, finance, and governance. The report concludes with recommendations for developing a bankable regional investment programme capable of attracting public and private investment while strengthening climate-resilient and commercially viable camel value chains across the Horn of Africa.