Contribution of camel production to household well being amongst pastoralists in Karamoja sub-region

The contribution of camel production to household wellbeing and its potential in building household resilience to climate variations in the Karamoja region was examined. A crosssectional survey was conducted covering a sample of 50 camel rearing and 70 non-camel rearing households in Amudat and Moroto districts. Preliminary findings revealed that camels contribute to household wellbeing mainly through milk and blood production for both food and income. A lactating camel produces a stable supply of milk for over 12 months compared to cows whose milk production fluctuates with season. The milk from camels is perceived to be medicinal, more nutritious and healthier compared to cow milk. Besides food products, camels are in a few instances used as bride price, and rarely sold. Camels have not been observed to migrate in the dry season as compared to other livestock. This enhances the nutritional status of women and children who often remain at home in the dry period. Milk production for camels is stable throughout the lactation period (over 12 months). The high volume of milk produced (6-8 milking per day) enhances household resilience to drought induced food insecurity. While camel rearing is still at its subsistence, it presents a viable opportunity for household resilience enhancement in the area especially as cattle that have traditionally been relied upon start experiencing production challenges due to the recurrent and prolonged droughts.