The Launch of a Continental Milestone: AABNet's Open-Access Guide
In a significant development for animal science across Africa, the African Animal Breeding Network (AABNet) has launched African Livestock Genetic Resources and Sustainable Breeding Strategies: Unlocking a Treasure Trove and Guide for Improved Productivity. This open-access publication, released on February 20, 2026, represents a collaborative effort by 83 experts from 24 African countries, including contributions linked to South African institutions like the University of South Africa (Unisa). Published by Springer Nature, the book consolidates decades of research to address the urgent need for conserving indigenous livestock genetics while promoting sustainable breeding practices tailored to local challenges.
Aimed at students, professors, researchers, farmers, and policymakers, the guide emphasizes the unique adaptive traits of African breeds, such as heat tolerance and disease resistance, which are critical in the face of climate change and food security demands. For South African higher education, it serves as an invaluable resource for programs in animal genetics and agriculture at universities like Unisa, Stellenbosch University, and the University of Pretoria.
Understanding AABNet and Its Mission
The African Animal Breeding Network (AABNet) is a pan-African platform uniting geneticists, breeders, and professionals to advance livestock improvement. Established to bridge research and practice, AABNet facilitates multi-country genetic evaluations, technology incubation, and capacity building. Partners including the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), and African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) supported the book's development.
In South Africa, where livestock contributes substantially to rural economies, AABNet's work aligns with national priorities. Researchers from Unisa's Department of Agriculture and Animal Health have engaged with the network, contributing to discussions on genetic improvement. The network's focus on professionalizing breeding addresses gaps in data sharing and institutional frameworks, vital for South African universities training the next generation of animal scientists.
Rich Genetic Diversity: Africa's Livestock Heritage
Africa boasts unparalleled livestock genetic diversity, with the continent hosting the highest number of cattle and goat breeds globally, second-highest for sheep, chickens, rabbits, and donkeys. The book details how indigenous breeds like South Africa's Nguni cattle and Boer goats exemplify resilience—Nguni's tick resistance and Boer goats' superior meat production under harsh conditions.
Chapters explore species-specific traits:
- Cattle: Adaptive genomics for heat and disease.
- Small ruminants: Boer goat productivity in arid zones.
- Poultry and pigs: Local ecotypes for smallholder systems.
- Non-conventional species: Donkeys, camels for niche roles.
This diversity is under threat from crossbreeding with exotics, leading to genetic erosion. The guide provides strategies to characterize and conserve these resources, drawing on South African examples like the Boran cattle societies and performance recording schemes.
Sustainable Breeding Strategies Tailored to Africa
The publication outlines context-specific breeding goals aligned with production systems—from subsistence to commercial. Key approaches include:
- Participatory breeding involving farmers.
- Genomic selection and gene editing for rapid gains.
- Multi-trait improvement for productivity, adaptation, and low emissions.
For South Africa, it highlights opportunities to leverage established recording systems, enhancing breeds like Bonsmara cattle for export markets. The book stresses matching breeding to local environments, reducing methane intensity while boosting output—crucial for SA's livestock sector, which supports millions in rural areas.
Climate Resilience and Productivity Gains
Climate change poses severe risks to African livestock, but indigenous genetics offer solutions. The guide presents evidence on genetic bases for adaptation, such as Nguni cattle's superior thermotolerance. Research insights show breeding can cut emissions per unit product by improving efficiency.
In South Africa, where droughts impact farming, these strategies support national goals for resilient agriculture. Universities can use the book to train students in climate-smart breeding, integrating tools like genomic prediction.
Institutional Frameworks and Capacity Building
AABNet advocates for unified genetic evaluation centers and animal seed certification. The book reviews past efforts and proposes resourcing for sustainable programs, including South Africa's advanced schemes as models.
Higher education plays a pivotal role: The manual equips professors and students with practical knowledge. Unisa's involvement exemplifies how SA institutions contribute to continental efforts, fostering PhD programs and collaborations via higher-ed-jobs.
South Africa's Pivotal Role in Livestock Genetics
South Africa leads in livestock genetics research, with breeds like Boer goats exported worldwide and Nguni conserved through community programs. ARC's performance recording and Unisa's academic contributions feature prominently. The guide positions SA as a hub for training, with universities offering courses in quantitative genetics and breeding tech.
Stakeholders like farmers' organizations praise the resource for actionable insights, potentially boosting GDP via improved herds.
Expert Perspectives and Quotes
"Africa's livestock genetics are a treasure trove of resilience," notes ILRI Director General Jimmy Smith. Editors like Eveline M. Ibeagha-Awemu emphasize farmer-centered approaches. SA experts, including those from Unisa, highlight the book's role in policy alignment with the National Livestock Improvement Scheme.
Future Outlook and Actionable Insights
The guide calls for investments in data systems, training, and policies. For South African universities, it opens doors for research grants and partnerships. Download the free PDF at OAPEN or visit ILRI.
Explore careers in animal genetics via higher-ed-jobs or South African opportunities. This publication not only preserves heritage but propels Africa's livestock sector forward.
