The United Nations has designated 2024 as the International Year of Camelids, a designation that emphasizes the vital significance of these animals in the lives of people across the globe.
This decision is made with the intention of highlighting the various ways in which camelids, such as vicuñas, guanacos, llamas, and Bactrian camels, contribute to improving food security, nutrition, and economic growth, especially for Indigenous Peoples and local communities.
United Nations
Acquiring Knowledge About Camelids: Keepers of Livelihoods
The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) reports that camelids have an effect on millions of families in more than 90 different countries. Beyond their basic animal roles, they play an essential part in the fabric of cultures around the world.
The varied group of camelids includes animals such as vicuñas, guanacos, llamas, alpacas, and Bactrian camels. Communities and ecosystems rely on each species in its own special way.
The Relationship Between Camelids and the SDGs: A Comprehensive Contribution
Nutritional Source: Camelids play a crucial role in combating hunger and malnutrition by providing milk and meat.
Clothing and Shelter Fibers: Camelid fibers are utilized in the production of clothing and shelter, which is in line with sustainable practices and helps sustain livelihoods.
Camelids improve agricultural techniques in many places by providing organic fertilizer and reliable transportation.
Camels are indispensable in their varied habitats because of their adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity.
Local Communities and Indigenous Peoples Affected
People that live in the dry and semi-arid regions of Africa and Asia, as well as the altitudes of the Andes mountains, rely heavily on camelids for their survival. Their continued existence is essential to the maintenance of these rare habitats.
Because of their adaptability and ability to endure extreme environments, camelids have taken on the role of climate change advocates. Their adaptations and experiences can help us understand and tackle environmental problems.
Our Goals for the 2024 International Year of Camelids
A greater understanding of camelids and their unrealized potential is the overarching goal of the 2024 International Year of Camelids. Its goal is to illuminate the many ways in which these creatures have benefited humans in this way.
Proclaiming More Investment: The proclamation demands more funding for the camelid industry. The utilization of novel methods and technology, as well as increased research and capacity development, are all part of this effort to maximize camelid contributions.
A Plea for Help: The year 2024 is a rallying cry for people all throughout the world to wake up and realize that camelids can be a powerful tool for building more sustainable and resilient communities.
