Food security expert Dr. Fadel ELZUBI stated that Awassi sheep are historically the only native breed in the Kingdom, and the most widespread sheep breed across West Asia, with origins stretching back thousands of years in the Fertile Crescent.
He added that Awassi sheep possess genetic traits that make them a triple-purpose breed, producing milk, meat, and wool. Under traditional conditions, milk yields range between 100 and 150 liters over a season of about 150 days. They are highly resilient to dry and semi-arid environments, heat, and water scarcity, making them a cornerstone of Jordan’s food security system.
ELZUBI explained that the sheep sector plays a pivotal role in producing red meat and dairy. According to the Department of Statistics, the number of sheep and goats in Jordan reached about 3.96 million head in 2024, up 1% from the previous year, including 3.08 million sheep alone.
He noted that the agricultural sector contributes significantly to local fresh milk production and red meat supplies, while also sustaining rural and Bedouin communities that rely on sheep farming as a primary livelihood, deeply tied to Jordan’s agricultural and cultural heritage.
Despite this strategic importance, the breed faces challenges threatening its genetic purity and production sustainability. Unregulated crossbreeding with imported breeds weakens its unique traits, while shrinking natural pastures and rising feed costs reduce productivity and increase expenses. Climate change and recurrent droughts further raise mortality rates, which in severe drought years can reach very high levels compared to the usual 15–20% in Bedouin farms, according to the National Agricultural Research Center.
Additional challenges include weak genetic tracking and registration programs, making it difficult to preserve the breed’s identity, alongside the decline of traditional breeders and the loss of inherited knowledge in husbandry.
ELZUBI emphasized that scientific and institutional tools are now available to address these challenges. The National Agricultural Research Center, in cooperation with Jordanian universities, has completed sequencing the Awassi genome and published its genetic map. This revealed unique genetic patterns, including 37 mitochondrial genes and 146 individual variants serving as genetic markers for selecting superior animals, thus establishing a reference genetic fingerprint for the breed.
He highlighted the role of the Khanasri Station, the only facility in Jordan specialized in livestock, rangeland, and Awassi genetic improvement research.
Building on this scientific foundation, structured breeding and genetic improvement programs can produce superior rams that increase twinning rates and productivity. Establishing genetic banks for semen and embryos will safeguard against genetic erosion, while expanding electronic tagging and tracking systems will ensure breed quality and prevent unauthorized crossbreeding. Financial and technical incentives should also encourage breeders to preserve pure Awassi lines rather than dilute them.
On transforming Awassi into an economic success story, ELZUBI explained that this requires a vision that goes beyond preservation toward value creation. Developing a national brand for Jordanian Awassi and marketing its products with a distinctive geographic identity would highlight the superior quality and taste of its meat, which commands premium prices.
He added that strengthening value chains for milk, traditional cheeses, and wool is essential. Awassi milk, with its high fat content, is ideal for producing traditional cheeses with added value, while wool provides an additional income source.
Linking Awassi farming to rural tourism and Jordan’s food heritage adds cultural and economic dimensions. Moreover, the breed’s presence in more than 30 countries opens opportunities to expand export markets for live animals, dairy, and meat products.
A vital pillar of Jordan’s livestock wealth.