The Government of Senegal has approved the studies conducted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations on the National Cattle Identification and Tracking System following a national workshop held in Diamniadio in December 2025. The event brought together public authorities, private sector actors, professional organizations, and technical partners, and was chaired by the Minister of Agriculture, Food Sovereignty, and Livestock. The validation of these studies marks a key milestone toward the operationalization of a national system to improve livestock security.
The workshop highlighted the growing threat of cattle theft, which causes significant economic and social losses for livestock farmers across Senegal and the wider West African region. In Senegal alone, annual losses linked to cattle theft are estimated at around two billion CFA francs. Authorities emphasized that the phenomenon has evolved into an organized criminal activity that undermines investment, weakens pastoral livelihoods, and poses a serious risk to the long-term development of the livestock sector.
To address this challenge, Senegal has adopted a collective and inclusive approach that mobilizes communities, government institutions, private sector actors, and technical partners. The strategy combines digital tracking technologies, community-based prevention and intelligence, and strengthened institutional and security frameworks. A multi-sector technical committee has been established to coordinate efforts and move from assessment to concrete action on the ground.
A central component of the strategy is innovation driven by local technology start-ups. Several young companies presented digital platforms and connected devices designed to enable real-time livestock tracking, prevent theft, and support investigations. These solutions are being integrated into the national cattle identification system, with FAO support aimed at fostering locally adapted technologies that enhance pastoral security and respond to the realities of livestock farmers.
Stakeholders also validated a budgeted national roadmap that includes the establishment of local anti-cattle theft committees in all municipalities across the country. This roadmap strengthens coordination between civil society, security forces, private agencies, and digital solution providers, while reinforcing national ownership of the strategy. Defense and security forces, supported by specialized private companies, are increasingly using technology and community intelligence to dismantle criminal networks and restore trust among livestock farmers.
FAO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Senegalese authorities in implementing this national strategy and integrating innovative, inclusive, and sustainable solutions. By combining technology, institutional coordination, and community engagement, the initiative aims to transform cattle theft from a persistent threat into an opportunity to build resilience and long-term security for livestock farmers and rural communities.
