Abstract:
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) region includes 15 member states which all
face growing population numbers and a possible protein shortage within the next 20 years. Although
these countries have a wealth of livestock genetic resources and mostly are quite agriculturally
dependent, there exist clear limitations and challenges regarding animal recording, genetic
improvement, production efficiency and the implementation of new technologies, such as genomic
selection (GS). Genomic selection incorporates genomic information with phenotypic information
(breeding values) to derive genomic estimated breeding values (GEBV) and leads to an increased rate
of genetic improvement. The countries within the SADC region are in several stages of development
with regard to agriculture and infrastructural development and this limits the implementation of
advanced technologies. The establishing of reference populations seems beyond the capacity of most
of these countries at present, mainly in terms of financial viability, infrastructural support and national
cohesion. Genomic technology however holds potential for the introgression of favourable genes in
resource-poor livestock production systems and traceability of livestock products. Furthermore,identification of traits associated with adaptability and disease resistance and unique products would
contribute to food security on various levels. This review discusses interventions that may mitigate
constraints, and proposes key research areas needed for addressing the limitations mentioned.
