Tropentag, September 16 - 18, 2026, Göttingen "Towards multi-functional agro-ecosystems promoting climate-resilient futures"

Camel milk value chain structure, functionality, and income generation in pastoral areas of Borana and East Shewa, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia

¹Arsi University, College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Ethiopia
²Addis Ababa University, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Dept. of Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health, Ethiopia
³University of Kassel, Animal Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, Germany
⁴Borana University, Natural Resources Mangement, Ethiopia

Abstract

Camel milk contributes substantially to the livelihoods, food security, and income generation of households in arid and semi-arid regions. However, its potential is constrained by weak institutions, limited market access, and inefficient value chain linkages. This study examines the organisational structure, functional performance, and income generation along camel milk value-chain in the Borana and East Shewa zones of Oromia regional state, Ethiopia. Using a cross-sectional, multistage sampling study design. This study targeted 386 producers and key value chain actors, including 20 collectors, 20 retailers, 2 cooperatives, 30 consumers, and 10 institutional stakeholders. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions in the main wet and dry seasons 2025. Marketing margin analysis, and others descriptive statistics as well as econometric modelling (multinomial logit models) were used to analyse the milk value chain structure, functionality and income generation .The findings reveal that the camel milk value chain in both study zones is largely informal, characterised by weak coordination, inadequate infrastructure, and limited institutional support. Significant differences were observed between the two zones, with Borana herders producing an average of 817 liters and East Shewa producing 2,160 liters of marketable milk per day. Market participation was reported by 47% of herders in Borana and 69% in East Shewa. Income distribution (GMMp) ranged from 55.60% to 63% in Borana and from 61% to 71% in East Shewa. This implies that East Shewa captures a greater value share, indicating a more efficient and equitable chain, while Borana reflects inefficiencies and lower producer returns. Producers receive a relatively small share of the final consumer price due to the dominance of intermediaries and limited value addition practices. The data analysis indicates that age and family size have a negative effect on market outlet choice, whereas farmland holding size, total livestock units, milk price, and cooperative membership had a positive effect. In conclusion, improving the camel milk value chain efficiency and inclusiveness requires strengthening institutions, infrastructure, cooperatives, and market linkages to increase income and livelihood resilience.

Keywords: Camel milk, econometric analysis, Ethiopia, income generation, pastoral livelihoods

Contact Address: Regina Rößler, University of Kassel, Animal Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, Witzenhausen, Germany, e-mail: regina.roessleruni-kassel.de