Camelids are a main source of protein, fiber for clothes, and fertilizer for agricultural production. They serve as pack animals, transporting people and products in indigenous communities throughout South America’s extensive Andean highlands, as well as in deserts in Africa and Asia.

Camelids can play a key role in addressing the effects of climate change, in particular in arid and semi-arid lands. Recognition, advocacy, and support for the promotion of the products and services that they provide is of paramount importance for the livelihoods of the communities that depend on them.

There is an urgent need to raise public awareness of the importance of camelids for food security and ecosystem functions, and to promote actions that improve the management of camelids in order to contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.