Ethiopia has faced severe challenges due to recurrent droughts and conflicts. The prolonged drought (2020–2023) in the eastern and southern regions caused poor harvests, water shortages, significant food insecurity, malnutrition, and disease outbreaks, impacting millions of people and livestock. Additionally, conflicts in northern Ethiopia (2020–2022) and ongoing violence in regions such as Amhara, Oromia, Somali, and Afar have displaced millions (OCHA 2024).

Funded by the EU (€9-million) the ILRI-led RESTORE project (2024-28), builds on the lessons from the HEARD project (2019-2023), supporting the long-term recovery of the livestock sector from crises like conflict and drought. The project aims to increase productivity and improve livestock product marketing, by enhancing disease control and feeding practices.