Funded by: French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs
Implemented by: DOZ Syria, with support from Expertise France (Sabir II Program)

For generations, livestock farming has been a way of life in the rural villages of Hasaka. Sheep, goats, and cows are more than animals here — they are the backbone of household incomes, food security, and tradition.

But since 2011, that way of life has come under serious threat.

With the collapse of public support, prolonged drought, economic hardship, and limited access to vaccines and veterinary care, many families have watched helplessly as their animals fell sick or died. The spread of deadly diseases like Enterotoxemia and internal parasites like Theileriosis only deepened the crisis.

In early 2022, a rapid needs assessment by DOZ Syria in Markada Subdistrict showed alarming results:

• Livestock births had dropped by over 22%
• Enterotoxemia (Al-Dumyah / Al-Tasammum Al-Mi’awi) was spreading fast
• Internal parasites were endangering entire herds
• Livestock owners could no longer afford basic fodder
• Many barns lacked sanitation or veterinary guidance

It was clear that urgent action was needed — not just to protect animals, but to preserve livelihoods and restore dignity to farming families.

With funding from Expertise France under the Sabir II Program, DOZ Syria launched a rapid response project titled:

“Urgent Support for Livestock Owners and Farmers in Rural Hasaka.”

Between planning and implementation, this project directly supported:

• 🐄 2052 livestock (cows, sheep, goats)
• 👩‍🌾 161 livestock owners across Markada
• 🌱 12 farmers with Azolla-based alternative fodder systems

DOZ Syria deployed a veterinary response team to conduct door-to-door health campaigns. Local livestock were vaccinated with Jovaclost to prevent Enterotoxemia, and Ivermectin injections were given to eliminate internal and lung parasites. Each round of care included vitamin supplements, antipyretics to manage vaccine side effects, and on-site consultations with veterinarians.

Simultaneously, 161 animal sheds were sterilized with Alpha-Cypermethrin to stop the spread of parasites and create a cleaner, healthier environment for herds.

In a region plagued by drought, DOZ introduced an innovative solution: the Azolla plant — a fast-growing, protein-rich aquatic fern that serves as an affordable, sustainable fodder alternative.

Twelve farmers were selected to receive Azolla seeds and participated in training sessions led by local experts. They learned how to grow, harvest, and use Azolla as daily feed — reducing their reliance on costly, hard-to-find traditional fodder.

To ensure sustainable impact, DOZ conducted interactive training sessions with all 161 beneficiaries. Topics included:

• Recognizing common livestock diseases
• Importance and timing of key vaccines
• Livestock care during pregnancy and childbirth
• Hygiene and sterilization methods
• Nutrition strategies and alternative feed options

Farmers were divided into small groups of 10–15 for hands-on discussions with veterinarians, creating space for shared learning and trust.

DOZ also worked with the local livestock office to support artificial insemination for 20 cows, improving birth rates and helping farmers rebuild herds without needing to purchase new animals.

This process was timed around the cows’ reproductive cycles, coordinated directly with trained veterinarians and community focal points.

Finally, DOZ distributed fodder and mineral salts to cover the nutritional needs of the 2052 livestock supported by the project. Distributions were organized in coordination with local committees, and included onsite demonstrations on proper feeding techniques.

Farmers expressed deep appreciation for the initiative. Beyond the material support, what mattered most to many was being seen, heard, and cared for.

One local livestock owner shared:

This was the first time in years someone visited our farms, asked what we needed, and brought real help. We feel supported again — not forgotten.

This project showed that livestock support = livelihood support. When animals are protected, entire families benefit — with food, income, and dignity.

Innovations like Azolla gave hope to farmers who had nearly given up. By introducing practical, low-cost solutions alongside emergency relief, DOZ was able to help communities survive today and prepare for tomorrow.

The path to recovery in Northeast Syria is long, but it begins with trust, action, and local leadership. DOZ Syria is proud to walk that path — one farmer, one barn, one life at a time.

📢 Want to support our work?

DOZ Syria continues to develop sustainable food security and livelihoods programs in hard-hit areas of Syria. To partner, donate, or learn more, contact us:

📧 info@doz.ngo
🌍 www.doz.ngo