The unveiling of the African Animal Breeding Network (AABNet) at the CGIAR Science Week in Nairobi, Kenya has brought attention to a new platform for African animal breeding professionals. This platform aims to advance livestock genetic improvement in Africa. The network was established to build capacity in animal breeding and utilize the continent’s livestock diversity.
Harnessing the Power of Livestock Diversity
Mizeck Chagunda, director of the Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), highlighted the importance of harnessing Africa’s livestock diversity. He emphasized that the right genetics are crucial for livestock farm survival. Without the correct genetics, farms suffer from inefficiencies such as methane emissions, overuse of water, and production of nitrous oxide.
“The wrong genetics on any farm is costly. There is a responsibility to transform the food system using livestock genetics to ensure those inefficiencies are eliminated.” — Mizeck Chagunda
Why AABNet Matters
African countries have not fully utilized the potential of crossbreeding and established breeding programs due to the high level of investment and data needed. AABNet can address these challenges by facilitating genetic evaluations, professional development, and collaboration among countries.
- Increased demand for livestock-derived food in Africa (80% by 2030)
- African countries rely on importing genes, assuming one breed fits all environments
- Limited crossbreeding and established breeding programs due to investment and data requirements
Vision 2063
The vision for AABNet is to drive genetic improvement and develop solutions in Africa. This goal is aligned with Raphael Mrode’s vision of Africa in 2063, where an efficient, multi-country livestock genetic improvement system is delivered.
- A digital data capturing platform for AADGG and CTLGH
- A genetically improved pipeline for CTLGH and AABNet
- A delivery system for sustainable genetic gains
Future Directions
The future of AABNet involves the development of digital tools providing farmers with real-time insights. Additionally, new technologies such as predictive analytics and artificial intelligence will enhance digital farm support.
Institutional capacity building through curriculum review and delivery will also play a key role.
Takeaway Messages
Appolinaire Djikeng summarized 10 key takeaways from the event:
- The livestock sector is a vital component of agriculture
- Animal breeding is essential for building prosperity
- Capacity building is crucial alongside institutions
- Animal genetic evaluation services need to be launched
- Investment is vital for success
- Policy and advisory services are necessary
- Diverse stakeholders should be involved
- Research and development should drive innovation
- Intellectual property rights and access-benefit sharing should be managed
- AABNet should be advocated for
The unveiling of AABNet has marked an important step forward in advancing livestock genetic improvement in Africa. As the continent faces growing demand for livestock-derived food, AABNet’s vision of harnessing the continent’s diversity and leveraging technology will play a pivotal role in ensuring a sustainable food system.
Written by Tezira Lore, Communication Officer, ILRI.