**Saudi Arabia has lifted a ban on the import of livestock from Somalia imposed nine years ago to prevent the spread of Rift Valley fever.**Somali pastoralists and traders have welcomed the news.
It means they can profit from increased demand for livestock during the Eid al-Adha festival when Muslims traditionally sacrifice an animal.
The export of sheep, goats and cattle is a mainstay of Somalia’s economy and Saudi Arabia had been a major market.
The failed Horn of Africa state has not had a functioning central government since 1991.