FAO in Syria improves smallholder breeders’ livestock production Format Livestock production is vital in the Syrian Arab Republic to sustain food availability. Livestock breeders – the vast majority of whom maintain a small number of animals - are constantly seeking ways to increase and protect their assets, increase milk and meat production, and generate a good income. Unfortunately, in this time of crisis, breeders have lacked access to fodder and veterinary services, which has impeded their ability to sustain a good livelihood. FAO understands the many challenges that small-scale breeders face, and has responded by implementing an integrated intervention to boost breeders’ livelihoods. FAO Syria, within its Smallholder Support Programme, plans to reach a total of 6 000 small-scale cow breeders in Al Hassakeh, Aleppo and Deir Ez-Zor Governorates with an artificial insemination activity, with 1 500 breeders of whom will also receive silage, a type of fodder made from fermented yellow corn for enriched