One Camel at a Time

Title:  My Own Dairy Cattle

I was born on a farm and had dairy goats when my kids were young and so felt a real connection with the story of women being empowered through the acquisition of their own dairy camels.

The women in this piece are earning livelihoods and feeding their families from the proceeds of their camels. They belong to a group of women who are working together with governments and NGOs to increase incomes and food security, and to enhance local skills in livestock management, environmentally sustainable practices and community leadership.

Camel farming is a good fit for sub-Saharan Africa because the animals are well suited to arid climates, produce large quantities of milk, and can go long periods without water. Camels are browsers and are easier on the ecosystem than cows or goats that tend to clear vegetation right down to the soil level.

The women in this community are also involved in a group dairy enterprise which uses the profits from the sales of camel milk, ghee, chocolate, cheese, meat, hides and other products to finance small business ventures, community improvements and the education of their children.

Dimensions:  2"W x 19"H

Artist:   Paula Beltgens