Artificial insemination technician Deborah Atunbi at a ranch in southwest Nigeria.
Photographer: Tom Saater/BloombergClimate Politics
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It’s the other AI: Nigeria is importing semen to breed a new generation of cows that can withstand the African climate and produce more milk.
At his ranch in southwest Nigeria, Moyosore Rafiu watches as an artificial insemination specialist carefully inspects whether his cows are ready. If he gets the nod, another part of his herd will be impregnated with imported semen from the hardy Girolando breed from Brazil.
Switching to cattle that can withstand the African climate means twice the milk and more income for Rafiu. But it could also be a game changer for Nigeria, home to one of the world’s most food insecure populations.