African livestock, meat farmers turn to modern breeding technologies to boost production, report shows

AFRICA – A recent study published in Nature Genetics finds that livestock farmers in Africa are incorporating advanced breeding technologies to enhance the production of meat, milk, and eggs.

Researchers suggest that with the right investments and policies, these innovations could improve productivity, support climate adaptation, and promote sustainable farming practices.

Genomic technologies and breeding programs are among the tools being tested to improve genetic traits in livestock.

The African Animal Breeding Network (AABNet), a platform that brings together genetics experts and animal breeders, is helping to implement these strategies by providing technical support, training, and research collaboration.

Professor Appolinaire Djikeng, the study’s lead author and Director General of the International Livestock Research Institute, explains that past breeding programs primarily focused on increasing output while overlooking environmental challenges.

He notes that Africa has a chance to take a different approach by integrating productivity improvements with sustainability efforts and ensuring that breeding programs align with farmers’ needs.

Breeding Livestock for Climate Adaptation

By factoring in climate adaptation during the breeding process, researchers believe that livestock farmers will gain access to more resilient and productive animals.

Africa is home to approximately 85% of the world’s livestock farmers, but they contribute just 2.8% of global meat and milk production, according to the study.

This gap presents an opportunity to use improved genetics to increase efficiency while also preparing for rising demand, particularly in urban areas.

In West Africa, where the continent’s livestock population is highest, demand for animal products is expected to increase by 50% by 2050.

An international research team led by the Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH) conducted the study, titled The African Animal Breeding Network as a Pathway Towards Genetic Improvement of Livestock, to assess the potential of genetic advancements in livestock farming.

Data-Driven Genetic Improvement

AABNet is facilitating genetic evaluations across multiple African countries, allowing researchers and breeders to collect, store, and share livestock data.

This system aims to improve livestock quality by identifying and promoting superior genetic traits.

In addition to research, AABNet supports training programs, academic partnerships, and business initiatives aimed at modernizing livestock breeding.

Professor Mizeck Chagunda, Director of CTLGH, states that the network’s efforts align with the goals of both the United Nations and the African Union in improving food production and climate resilience.

By connecting breeders from different regions, AABNet is enabling knowledge exchange and collaboration on genetic evaluation tools and techniques.

The study emphasizes that genomic technologies, digital advancements, and information-sharing platforms could help establish long-term breeding programs that strengthen Africa’s livestock sector.

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