My Journey to Camel Science: From Morocco to Tunisie

This autobiographical account chronicles my professional journey in camel science, from my early inspiration in Morocco to my international engagement through the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) in Tunisia. Growing up in a country where camels are central to the livelihoods and cultural heritage of arid and semi-arid regions, I developed a lasting interest in understanding the remarkable biological adaptations of these animals. My academic and research career at the Agronomic and Veterinary Institute Hassan II initially focused on animal physiology and health but gradually evolved toward camel physiology, clinical biochemistry, mineral metabolism, nutrition, dehydration, stress physiology, and adaptation to desert environments. Over the years, my work expanded to encompass camel health, reproduction, disease management, milk quality, and sustainable production systems through multidisciplinary research and international collaborations. Participation in FAO-led programmes provided opportunities to promote camel development through research, technical cooperation, capacity building, policy dialogue, and scientific networking across Africa and the Middle East. This journey also reflects the remarkable evolution of camel science from a relatively neglected discipline to a rapidly advancing field driven by innovations in genomics, precision livestock management, nutrition, health, and value addition of camel products. Beyond scientific achievements, the article highlights the vital role of camels in enhancing food security, climate resilience, and sustainable pastoral livelihoods in dryland ecosystems. It concludes by emphasising the importance of continued investment in research, innovation, and international collaboration to fully harness the potential of camels as strategic livestock species capable of addressing emerging global challenges related to climate change, sustainable agriculture, and rural development.