Projects for the development of small ruminant production, particularly sheep production, are now underway in many countries in tropical Africa. While this trend is occurring in all climatic zones, it is especially so in the humid and subhumid tropics, where disease and social and psychological factors may be major impediments to the development of cattle or pig production. There is therefore a growing need for information on sheep production in tropical regions.

Pastoralism refers to the type of farming system which uses extensive grazing on grasslands for livestock production. This type of farming covers 25 per cent of the world's land area and supports 20 million households. It makes substantial contributions to the economies of developing countries, although agricultural encroachment, conflict and drought continue to erode this way of life. This publication considers key policy issues and trends involved in attempts to improve the livelihoods of pastoralist families and communities.