In light of ongoing campaigns against meat consumption, we must consider the unique context of sub-Saharan Africa. While developed countries advocate for reduced meat consumption based on environmental concerns and health issues, we find ourselves in a different reality in Africa, where malnutrition still haunts the lives of millions, especially women of reproductive age and children. According to the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, 30% of children in sub-Saharan Africa are stunted due to undernutrition, with protein deficiency as a leading factor.

In developed countries, meat consumption has been scrutinised for its environmental impact. Greenhouse gas emissions and pollution have spurred conversations about the need for plant-based alternatives. However, in sub-Saharan Africa, the situation is starkly different. The challenge here is not overconsumption but undernutrition. Protein and micronutrient deficiencies persist among countless individuals, contributing to stunted growth, weakened immune systems and developmental challenges.

Animal proteins play a crucial role in combating malnutrition. Meat is a nutrient-dense source of protein, vitamins and minerals, all of which are essential for human growth and development. The consumption of meat is not merely about satisfying hunger; it is about ensuring that children grow up healthy and strong, ready to face the world’s challenges. We cannot afford to overlook the vital role that meat plays in providing essential nutrients, especially in regions where access to diverse and nutritious food is often limited.

Moreover, in many African societies, livestock holds immense cultural value, playing a central role in various ceremonies and rituals. Cattle, sheep, goats, poultry and other animals are both a source of sustenance and woven into the fabric of traditions, symbolising wealth, prestige and community ties. The importance of livestock extends beyond nutritional considerations, influencing social structures and community cohesion.

The call for context-specific nutrition is more relevant than ever. While developed countries advocate for a decrease in meat production, it is crucial to recognise the folly of a one-size-fits-all approach. What works in one part of the world might not be applicable in Africa, where policies and dietary guidelines should reflect the continent’s unique nutritional challenges, and emphasise that locally sourced, responsibly raised meat can provide the necessary nutrients without compromising the environment.

The emergence of lab-grown meat, while promising in some aspects, poses challenges for regions where livestock production is a vital source of livelihood. The African livestock sector contributes 30 – 80% to agricultural gross domestic products. In sub-Saharan Africa, many families rely on livestock for food and economic sustenance. Livestock serves as a source of security, as it is a form of insurance for farmers against the uncertainties of crop failures. The existence of livestock is intertwined with that of people, making their health paramount for entire communities. The shift to lab-grown alternatives could jeopardise the livelihoods of millions, pushing them further into poverty.

Additionally, the researchers working to address Africa’s specific challenges face a unique set of hurdles. Funding and grants are essential for research, yet many donors are hesitant to support projects related to animal production. The emphasis on meat alternatives in global discourse has inadvertently stifled crucial research initiatives to improve livestock practices, ensure animal welfare and promote sustainable production methods.

To understand the complexities surrounding this issue, we must adopt a systems-thinking approach. This perspective allows us to break down silos and view the entire livestock farming ecosystem as an interconnected web of relationships and dependencies. Instead of addressing isolated issues, a systems-thinking approach considers the complex interactions between various components, such as environmental degradation (including greenhouse-gas emissions and land use), economic dependencies (such as reliance on livestock to maintain livelihoods in rural communities) and social factors (including nutrition security and cultural practices). By doing so, we are able to acquire a comprehensive understanding of system dynamics and develop policies that address root causes – such as unsustainable farming practices, poverty and malnutrition – rather than simply treating symptoms like short-term economic gains or reducing environmental impact without considering socio-economic consequences.

Additionally, traditional livestock farming in much of sub-Saharan Africa is combined with crop systems, which naturally fertilise the soil and reduce the need for synthetic inputs. With targeted research, the benefits of livestock production could be enhanced while addressing its challenges.

Case studies from various African countries demonstrate the positive impact of community-based animal husbandry programmes. These include the Livestock and Irrigation Value Chains for Ethiopian Smallholders (LIVES) project; the Meru Dairy Goat and Animal Healthcare project in Kenya; the One Cow per Poor Family programme in Rwanda; Mali’s Projet Elevage for Poultry Farming; the Nguni Cattle Development Project in South Africa; and Ghana’s Rearing for Food and Jobs, a module under the Planting for Food and Jobs flagship programme. These initiatives address malnutrition and empower local communities by providing economic opportunities and improving overall well-being.

The conversation around meat consumption must be nuanced and take into account the diverse challenges that different regions face. In sub-Saharan Africa, the importance of meat as it relates to diets and economies cannot be ignored. Sustainable solutions that prioritise nutritional needs and environmental concerns must be found to ensure a healthier, stronger future for children and communities in Africa.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this opinion piece are those of the author and do not represent the official stance or policies of the University of Pretoria.