CCARDESA Content

Animal Genetic Resources (AnGR) that have evolved in the diverse African environments represent unique combinations of genes which define not only productive qualities, but also adaptive capability.

The African Union has placed a great emphasis on agricultural development as an engine for rural development and the wider economic sectors.

In the context of the management of animal genetic resources (AnGR), especially in the area of conservation, there are areas of development and implementation where ethical issues and challenges emerge, or are deemed by the general public as needing resolution.

In the context of the management of animal genetic resources (AnGR), especially in the area of conservation, there are areas of development and implementation where ethical issues and challenges emerge, or are deemed by the general public as needing resolution.

Despite the increasing reliance on livestock of exotic origins to provide a substantial proportion of the local production, several analysis suggest that in view of the huge populations of indigenous AnGR they would continue play significant roles in providing products to feed the growing African human populations.

Farm animals contribute to the livelihoods and well-being of smallholders in marginal environments, especially women and children.

Considering the fact that Africa have large reserves of AnGR, the stark poverty among livestock keeper’s points to the fact that these resources have not been extensively developed and utilized.

Greater diversity of species and breeds enable rural households to ensure their food security by continuing to produce in uncertain environments, thus enabling them to manage risks more efficiently. Development of animal genetic resources (AnGR) is a priority for most of the countries in Africa where livestock production constitutes a very important component of the agricultural economy and contributes up to 30% to agricultural Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (Upton, 2004).