In Mongolia, the frequency, intensity and unpredictability of weather extremes such as the harsh winter (dzud), drought, snow and dust storms, heavy rainfall and flooding have tripled in the last decade, heavily impacting traditional livestock-based livelihoods.

In 2022, according to the National Agrometeorological Services, 50 percent of the country’s territory experienced a moisture deficit in the summer season. Coupled with early snowfall and below-average temperature forecasts, this resulted in 59 percent of the country being at high risk of dzud.

Following these early warning signs, and thanks to the Government of Belgium’s contribution to the SFERA – Anticipatory Action window, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) together with the Government of Mongolia put in place Anticipatory Action measures to mitigate a potential massive livestock mortality in 11 provinces at high risk of dzud.

FAO will provide cash transfers to help households procure fodder at reduced government rates and ensure their livelihood is protected during dzud. The reduced rates will come in the form of a 50 percent discount on hay and fodder from the state emergency reserve to vulnerable herder households in 158 soums/administrative divisions.