Strategies for Sustainable Use of Indigenous Cattle Genetic Resources in Southern Africa

Abstract

Indigenous cattle breeds are the most important livestock species in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region owing to their role in human food, nutrition, income, and social security. Despite the role of these breeds in the household and national economies, they are currently underutilised, their productivity remains low, and populations are faced with extinction. In addition, there are insufficient measures taken to secure their present and future value. The current review highlights strategies for sustainable use of indigenous cattle genetic resources in the region, including the use of novel production and marketing practices, women and youth empowerment, and development of the appropriate capacity building, legislative, and policy structures. At present, the lack of coordination among the different stakeholders still poses a challenge to the implementation of these strategies. To this end, partnerships, collaboration, and stakeholders’ participation are recommended to effectively implement strategies for sustainable use of indigenous cattle breeds.

Livelihood, Food and Nutrition Security in Southern Africa: What Role Do Indigenous Cattle Genetic Resources Play?

“…However, African farm animal genetic resources, including indigenous cattle, are undervalued, and they are either undergoing rapid genetic dilution or are at risk of extinction [10,15]. This has renewed interest and awareness regarding the genetic diversity of indigenous cattle because of their potential economic and socio-cultural benefits and ecosystem services [15,32].…”

“…Indigenous cattle have not been solely bred for milk production but have been selected for adaptive traits enabling them to survive in marginal environments [32]. However, research has neglected indigenous cattle breeds in preference to exotic dairy breeds owing to their low milk yields [67].…”

“…Non-edible products can be further processed into secondary by-products [109]. For example, Ankole's long, thick, and magnificent horns and Nguni's multi-coloured hides are processed into good-looking and long-lasting by-products [32] Cattle skins and hides contribute significantly to the gross domestic production of most countries, yet at household and community levels, no economic benefits from these products have been formally recorded [113]. If sales can be improved at household level through community-based programs [114], this could boost farmers income, that could be spent towards food among other household essentials.…”

Unintended consequences of selection for increased production on the health and welfare of livestock

“…This has arguably also resulted in less close contact between farmers and their animals. In developing countries (as in Africa), a substantial number of livestock are kept in communal and smallholder systems where livestock serve several more purposes than only being a food source (Mapiye et al, 2019). In these systems, different challenges are faced with regard to animal health and welfare, such as the common practise of tethering (Mataveia et al, 2018).…”

Conserving the Genetic Diversity of Domesticated Livestock

“…Some efforts rely on an approach based on the gross phenotype of the animals (Loja cattle [3], Patagonian sheep dog [4]). Much of the South African work emphasizes cultural connections between genetic resources and their host communities [5][6][7][8][9]. An approach based on molecular genetics is possible in some countries, most notably those with sufficient infrastructure and finances.…”