How a breeding network could build a genetic pathway to more productive and climate-smart livestock in Africa

African livestock producers have a unique opportunity to improve the production of meat, milk and eggs through modern breeding technologies and innovations being tested in Africa, according to a recent perspective paper published in Nature Genetics.

With the right support, these advancements can enhance not only productivity but also climate resilience and sustainability.

Through strategic investment and collaboration, African livestock systems can harness tools such as genomic technologies and breeding programs to drive genetic gains.

Supported by the African Animal Breeding Network (AABNet)—a platform of genetics experts, animal breeders, and professionals providing training, advice, and support—these efforts could lead to more resilient, efficient, and sustainable livestock production, strengthening food security and rural livelihoods across the continent, researchers say.

‘In the past, genetic improvement efforts have largely focused on maximizing 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,’ said Appolinaire Djikeng, lead author of the paper and director general of the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI).

An international team of researchers, led by the Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), developed the perspective paper, The African Animal Breeding Network as a pathway towards genetic improvement of livestock, which explores how AABNet could play a key role in transforming African livestock production systems.

Photo: Ankole cattle in Mbarara, Uganda (credit: ILRI/Stevie Mann)

Curated by Tezira Lore, Communication Officer, ILRI