The State of Farm Animal Genetic Resources in Africa: Towards Accelerated Agricultural Growth and Transformation by the Year 2025

Abstract

The publication describes the diversity of production systems according to species in Africa. The classification of the systems covers cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and chickens, fish and the emerging or non-conventional species. In order to provide orientation to decision-makers involved in FAnGR development, the publication provides insights into the importance of the different systems across African regions and agro-ecological zones and related trends. It then deals with breed numbers (local, locally adapted and exotic breeds) and provides an indication of the regional distribution of species and breed diversity, including fish and emerging or non-conventional species. It also describes the state of species and breed diversity in each region on the African continent, and highlights that, over time, new breeds have been developed. At the same time, other adapted breeds that can produce and survive in marginal areas and harsh environments are being lost. These traits could be lost if nothing is done to ensure that sufficient populations of these breeds are maintained on the continent.