Research priorities for climate adaptation and resilience in smallholder livestock systems in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant threat to the sustainability of smallholder livestock systems in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where livelihoods depend heavily on climate-sensitive natural resources. Although considerable research has examined climate impacts and adaptation strategies, evidence on priority research areas required to strengthen resilience remains fragmented. This systematic review synthesized existing evidence on climate adaptation strategies in smallholder livestock systems and identified key knowledge gaps and future research priorities in SSA. A systematic literature search was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines using Scopus and Web of Science databases, complemented by manual searches. A thematic synthesis approach was employed to analyse evidence from 64 studies published between 2000 and 2025. Climate change affects smallholder livestock systems through feed and water scarcity, rangeland degradation, increased disease prevalence, and declining livestock productivity. Most adaptation strategies remain incremental. These include the use of indigenous breeds, feed supplementation, livestock mobility, water harvesting, and mixed crop-livestock systems. Their effectiveness is often constrained by weak institutional support, limited access to extension services and finance, and inadequate infrastructure. The review also identified important knowledge gaps in climate-resilient livestock genetics, sustainable feed systems, climate-sensitive disease surveillance, socioeconomic resilience, and digital and policy innovations. Addressing these priorities is essential for developing transformative, climate-resilient, and sustainable smallholder livestock systems in SSA.