African livestock producers could leapfrog other nations in their pace of development through genetic improvements with sector support, a study shows.
Animal production systems throughout Africa are well placed to benefit from tools and technologies to enable genetic gains, with support from the African Animal Breeding Network (AABNet) professional group, researchers say.
AABNet could enable African producers to progress in four core areas, which collectively could transform livestock systems in a region where only minimal genetic gains have been made to date, research suggests.
Collaborative support
An international team of researchers, led by the Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health, conducted a study to consider the potential for genetic gains in African livestock, and how the AABNet organisation might contribute to transforming production systems.
The network can enable and facilitate a system of genetic evaluation across multiple African countries, to collect, store and share data on livestock, and facilitate its use in producing high quality livestock.
AABNet can also support professional development through educational partnerships, support training events and entrepreneurship, and foster strategic collaborations to facilitate progress, the study found.
In addition, the organisation can enable networks of animal breeders to share information, evaluation systems, and tools to support productivity and genetic improvements.
Harnessing potential
The Perspective article, published in Nature Genetics, highlights the power of collaborative thinking in harnessing the recent advances in genomic technology, digital tools and information and communications technology to establish a firm foundation for transformative and sustainable livestock improvement programmes in Africa, researchers say.
“Indigenous and local livestock species in Africa have rich potential for genetic improvement which, with well-designed breeding programmes, could realise significant benefits in animal health and welfare, sustainability and productivity, similar to those seen in industrialised nations.”
Professor Bruce Whitelaw, Director of the Roslin Institute
“This represents a timely opportunity, with support from AABNet, to improve agriculture and food systems at a time of population growth and changing climate, towards the United Nations’ and Africa Union’s vision for the continent.”
Professor Mizeck Chagunda, Director of the Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health
“In the past, genetic improvement efforts have largely focused on maximising productivity, often overlooking environmental and climate considerations. Africa has a unique opportunity to take a different approach – one that balances productivity with sustainability, while ensuring interventions are farmer-appropriate and support livelihoods.”
Professor Appolinaire Djikeng, Director General of the International Livestock Research Institute
“By designing breeding programmes that factor in climate adaptation and mitigation co-benefits, we can ensure that livestock systems are not only more productive but also resilient to climate challenges and aligned with global sustainability goals.”