The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has launched a new project aimed at protecting and sustainably developing indigenous farm animal breeds in northwestern Iran. The program is being carried out in collaboration with the Iranian Ministry of Agriculture Jihad and national partners.
An inception workshop was held for the project titled "Strengthening and Developing the Gene Pool of Endangered Indigenous Animals in Northwestern Iran." The meeting was attended by government officials, technical experts, researchers, breeders and local stakeholders.
Local communities placed at the center
At the workshop, methods for strengthening rural life through the protection of valuable animal genetic resources were discussed. The direct participation of local communities forms the fundamental approach of the project.
FAO Representative in Iran, Farrukh Toirov, stated that indigenous animal breeds play a critical role in building food systems resilient to global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and food insecurity. Toirov stressed that preserving these genetic resources is essential not only for biodiversity, but also for future sustainable food production and resilient rural livelihoods.
Prominent breeds in the region
Valuable indigenous breeds such as the two-humped camel, Sarabi cattle, Mahabadi goat and Markhoz goat are found in northwestern Iran. These breeds are considered an important part of the country's agricultural biodiversity.
It was noted that these animals not only provide economic income for rural and nomadic communities, but are also important in terms of cultural identity and resilience.
According to FAO's latest assessments, more than 8,800 local and transboundary farm animal breeds have been reported worldwide. That over 70 percent of these are classified as at risk of extinction further increases the need for conservation efforts.
18-month implementation plan
The project will support the establishment of community-based breeding programs over 18 months. Additionally, pedigree recording and performance monitoring systems will be created, and steps will be taken to preserve genetic material.
The activities also include the rehabilitation of rangelands, strengthening of milk and mohair processing facilities, and comprehensive training for livestock keepers, technical experts and policymakers.
In parallel, the project aims to develop value chains for products derived from indigenous breeds and create new market opportunities. This is intended to increase incomes and economic resilience in rural areas.
The role of rural women
The project also attaches special importance to the economic empowerment of rural women. FAO notes that women play an important role in livestock systems in the target areas.
Through support for processing facilities, value chain development and targeted capacity building, the project plans to strengthen rural women’s economic participation and leadership.
Link to previous conservation efforts
The new program builds on FAO's previous conservation initiatives in the country. These include two-humped camel conservation efforts and mobile veterinary and breeding services for nomadic herders.
The organization states that this new step further strengthens the link between biodiversity conservation and rural development.
The project also aligns with the goals of the 2026 International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists. This year highlights the role of nomadic communities in biodiversity conservation, food security and ecosystem management.
