10%

Over the hump

Meet the heroes of deserts and highlands

April 9^th, 2024

Español Français

In ecosystems across the planet, there is a group of animals known for their exceptional adaptability and resilience.

These mammals thrive in some of the most challenging environments – from arid deserts to rugged highlands. Some have multiple outlined humps, others boast slender and elegant legs and necks, while some others are appreciated for their soft and quilted fur.

Originating in the American continent 45 million years ago, they have become indispensable in over 90 countries worldwide

Have you ever come across a camelid?

From wild camels and Bactrians to dromedaries in the Arab States, Asia and Africa, and llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and guanacos in Latin America, camelids have the capability to harness the natural resources in hostile and harsh environments.

They have been the lifeline for nomads and pastoral communities for centuries, flourishing in unforgiving climates where other livestock struggle.

They also have many virtues in addressing the challenges of climate change. Their breeding systems entail lower environmental impact compared to other forms of livestock and their adaptability can help promote a sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.

Nevertheless, the impacts of the climate crisis spare no one, not even some of the most resilient creatures on Earth: the ever-shifting climate conditions, water scarcity and rising temperatures present critical challenges to the survival of camelids.

In Somalia

Somalia is facing ist most severe drought in 40 years. About 60 to 70 percent of its population are pastoralists who rear livestock, including camels. And the impact for them is particularly profound.

To ensure long-term resilience to climate disasters, as well as to protect these remarkable mammals, UNDP, with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), collaborated with government institutions across the country to construct water infrastructure.

One of the 24,000 cubic metre dams built in a village in the Puntland territory has been a lifeline for communities, enabling camels and other animals to survive, and preserving the traditional herding lifestyle. About 5,000 families have seen improvements in their access to water, like Mohamed’s:

“Our livestock have fully recovered from the drought, and we can pay back the heavy debts we racked up when a 200-litre barrel of water cost more than US$5.”

In Syria

Hamdan, is a young herder in rural Deir ez-Zor, Syria. Like many others in the area, he was also grappling with water shortages and was compelled to sell some of his camels to survive.

In partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), UNDP restored a pumping station within the city, ensuring that water flowed to an area parched for over a decade.

This initiative has greatly improved the lives of 10,000 people and encouraged many farmers and livestock herders to return to their villages where they’ve resumed farming and increased breeding efforts to protect camels from extinction in the region.

Ecosystems are interconnected. Restoring water systems not only provides communities with a reliable source of drinking water and support to thrive in rural areas, but also helps to recognize, protect and enhance the resilience of camelids in the face of adversity.

In Djibouti

Camelids also supply meat, milk, fibre and fertilizer. And they serve as pack animals. Djibouti has harnessed the ‘ships of the desert’ to bring books to the northern regions of the country through camel-mobile libraries.

Acknowledging the invaluable contributions of these heroes involves both defending the goods and services they provide, and promoting sustainable management practices to ensure their long-term existence. This is also crucial for fostering economic development, creating sustainable job opportunities and promoting social equality.

In Peru

In the Peruvian steppe, work is already underway. Nuñoa, a small remote district, is home to the Suri alpaca, renowned for its luxurious and valuable fibre. However, the intricate weaving process and the rise of inexpensive alternatives were causing Suri wool to fall out of favour, posing a significant threat to this distinctive alpaca species.

With the support of the GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP), UNDP launched a project which introduced new males into the region and improved the Suri’s colour variation and overall health. Another part of the project focused on improving the skills and abilities in alpaca breeding, while also promoting sustainable land management.

These efforts have led to more efficient and sustainable wool production, prompting several women breeders, known as 'alpaqueras’, to reunite in cooperatives aimed at revitalizing artisanal products made with Suri wool. The project has also resulted in better water, soil and pasture management.

In Mongolia and Argentina

Mongolia is following the same footsteps. Businesses are improving camelid wool processing methods to foster more sustainable practices and to improve the lives of pastoralists, increase exports and minimize pasture degradation. Argentina, in turn, conducted a project focused on preserving and responsibly using the genetic resources obtained from the guanaco population to ensure its survival.

From a social and cultural perspective, camelids hold tremendous relevance. These animals have been inseparable companions of communities for millennia, holding central roles in traditional folklore, art, festivities and rituals in many cultures, especially among Indigenous Peoples and local groups.

"It would be sad not to have alpacas by my side; I always have to be with them, as if they were someone else in my family. Without the alpacas, my life would be impossible,” says Cirlo, an alpaca herder from Peru.

In Kazakhstan

The connection between people and camelids finds expression in contemporary artwork too, like that of Aisulu, from Kazakhstan. She carves and weaves camels from wood and cloth, capturing the essence of the caravans that her trading ancestors once journeyed with along the Great Silk Road.

In Algeria

Algeria has nominated the Qashabiya and the Burnous - two emblematic textiles crafted from dromedary and camel fibre - for inclusion on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

To ensure that this cultural heritage is preserved, increased policies supporting research and promotion on the value of camelids are needed, as well as investments in nature and biodiversity. Efforts should also focus on protecting the traditional knowledge of Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

The resilience of camelids serves as a powerful inspiration for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With their remarkable ability to prevail 'over the hump', there’s much we can learn from these heroes as we strive to tackle global challenges and create a more sustainable future.

The United Nations declared 2024 the International Year of Camelids to increase awareness of their significant contributions to agriculture, culture and biodiversity conservation. Celebrate it with us by sharing this story with the hashtag #YearofCamelids and #IYC2024.