Presented by Jan Philipsson, Emelie Zonabend, Erling Strandberg, James Audho, Julie Ojango and Okeyo Mwai at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) Global Workshop, Uganda, December 2012
Uganda, December 2012
This document discusses the value of estimated breeding values (EBVs) for genetic improvement in the US meat goat industry. It explains that EBVs quantify an animal's genetic merit for economically important traits based on their own performance data as well as data from relatives. The accuracy of EBVs depends on contemporary groups, genetic connections between animals, and the amount of data collected. The National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) currently provides EBVs for a few meat goat herds in the US through its Kidplan program. Producers can benefit from EBVs by selecting breeding stock with above average EBVs for important traits.
Dairy Reproduction: Identifying Problems and Solutions for Your HerdDAIReXNET
Ray Nebel of Select Sires, Inc. presented this information for DAIReXNET on March 17, 2014. A recording of the full presentation can be found at http://www.extension.org/pages/15830/archived-dairy-cattle-webinars#.Uyigy86nbZU,
Small-scale livestock production of sheep and goats provides unique opportunities but requires consideration of several factors. Producers should evaluate certification programs to access new markets while accounting for costs. Good stewardship through practices like manure management and stormwater runoff protection benefits both the environment and business relationships. Licenses and zoning regulations vary by location and products sold. With the right planning and practices, small-scale livestock can be profitable.
This document discusses improving dairy cow fertility and productivity. It notes that fertility problems are a main reason for culling cows and impact profitability. Several fertility issues have increased over time, including uterus inflammation and weaker heat signs. To improve pregnancy rates, the document recommends optimizing heat detection, feed intake after calving, and herd health and management. Advanced monitoring tools can help detect cows in heat at a 95% accuracy rate to time inseminations optimally. Proper nutrition, health, and minimizing stress around calving are also important to resume optimal feed intake.
Training the dry period final MSD Salud Animal Salud LecheraMSD Salud Animal
The dry period is needed for dairy cows to renew the epithelial cells in their udders. This allows for high milk production after calving. An ideal dry period is 60 days, allowing time for apoptosis, renewal of cells, and colostrum formation. A 60 day dry period is especially important for heifers. Good management during the dry period, including udder health practices like dry cow treatment, help support milk production and prevent mastitis.
This document discusses using genetics to improve flock health and productivity in sheep. It notes that genetics has advantages over traditional approaches like management changes in providing permanent and cumulative improvements. Traits like disease resistance have a genetic component and selecting for improved resistance can benefit flocks. Specific diseases and traits discussed include internal parasites, footrot, mastitis, ovine progressive pneumonia, scrapie, and lambing ease. The document also covers using crossbreeding to take advantage of hybrid vigor and breed complementarity.
This document discusses the conservation of indigenous poultry genetic resources in India. It notes that populations of indigenous chicken breeds have declined rapidly due to factors like the availability of commercial breeds. A total of 18 chicken breeds in India are now under threat. Conservation aims to preserve genetic variation for current and future economic and scientific uses. Methods of conservation include cryopreservation of genetic material and maintaining live populations. Both ex-situ conservation in gene banks and in-situ conservation of live populations are discussed, along with their advantages and disadvantages. Systematic steps are recommended to arrest the decline of poultry biodiversity in India.
This document discusses the value of estimated breeding values (EBVs) for genetic improvement in the US meat goat industry. It explains that EBVs quantify an animal's genetic merit for economically important traits based on their own performance data as well as data from relatives. The accuracy of EBVs depends on contemporary groups, genetic connections between animals, and the amount of data collected. The National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) currently provides EBVs for a few meat goat herds in the US through its Kidplan program. Producers can benefit from EBVs by selecting breeding stock with above average EBVs for important traits.
Dairy Reproduction: Identifying Problems and Solutions for Your HerdDAIReXNET
Ray Nebel of Select Sires, Inc. presented this information for DAIReXNET on March 17, 2014. A recording of the full presentation can be found at http://www.extension.org/pages/15830/archived-dairy-cattle-webinars#.Uyigy86nbZU,
Small-scale livestock production of sheep and goats provides unique opportunities but requires consideration of several factors. Producers should evaluate certification programs to access new markets while accounting for costs. Good stewardship through practices like manure management and stormwater runoff protection benefits both the environment and business relationships. Licenses and zoning regulations vary by location and products sold. With the right planning and practices, small-scale livestock can be profitable.
This document discusses improving dairy cow fertility and productivity. It notes that fertility problems are a main reason for culling cows and impact profitability. Several fertility issues have increased over time, including uterus inflammation and weaker heat signs. To improve pregnancy rates, the document recommends optimizing heat detection, feed intake after calving, and herd health and management. Advanced monitoring tools can help detect cows in heat at a 95% accuracy rate to time inseminations optimally. Proper nutrition, health, and minimizing stress around calving are also important to resume optimal feed intake.
Training the dry period final MSD Salud Animal Salud LecheraMSD Salud Animal
The dry period is needed for dairy cows to renew the epithelial cells in their udders. This allows for high milk production after calving. An ideal dry period is 60 days, allowing time for apoptosis, renewal of cells, and colostrum formation. A 60 day dry period is especially important for heifers. Good management during the dry period, including udder health practices like dry cow treatment, help support milk production and prevent mastitis.
This document discusses using genetics to improve flock health and productivity in sheep. It notes that genetics has advantages over traditional approaches like management changes in providing permanent and cumulative improvements. Traits like disease resistance have a genetic component and selecting for improved resistance can benefit flocks. Specific diseases and traits discussed include internal parasites, footrot, mastitis, ovine progressive pneumonia, scrapie, and lambing ease. The document also covers using crossbreeding to take advantage of hybrid vigor and breed complementarity.
This document discusses the conservation of indigenous poultry genetic resources in India. It notes that populations of indigenous chicken breeds have declined rapidly due to factors like the availability of commercial breeds. A total of 18 chicken breeds in India are now under threat. Conservation aims to preserve genetic variation for current and future economic and scientific uses. Methods of conservation include cryopreservation of genetic material and maintaining live populations. Both ex-situ conservation in gene banks and in-situ conservation of live populations are discussed, along with their advantages and disadvantages. Systematic steps are recommended to arrest the decline of poultry biodiversity in India.
Reproductive health management in dairy cows in Uganda, Assoc. Prof. Renée BågeSIANI
Reproduction is a key parameter determining the level of production and profitability in a dairy herd. Low fertility leads to productivity losses which can be directly translated into economic loss of great magnitude, and it is also the major reason for involuntary culling of dairy cows.
The project focuses on cows in the period around calving, a time associated with health disturbances that are decisive for the economy of dairy producers. Metritis, inflammation of the uterus, is common after calving with consequences for the cow’s future fertility and milk production level.
The main cause is lacking management and nutrition in this critical time period. Better knowledge of risk factors for metritis and their economic consequences is necessary for the motivation of farmers to adopt preventive measures.
Farms will be visited for gathering of information about management routines around calving. Newly calved cows will be examined for diagnosis of metritis. Practical recommendations will be suggested, adapted to prevailing circumstances. The aim is to keep the cows healthy through the calving process, during the transition from non-lactating to lactating state, for future successful breeding, optimized milk production and longevity.
Capacity-building activities like teaching of university staff (veterinarians) in diagnostic tools like gynecological ultrasonography for diagnosis of reproductive disorders will be performed. A course will be run for farmers on connection between nutrition and reproduction and management of the cow around calving. Workshops for researchers and stakeholders will be arranged.
This PowerPoint is from a seminar originally presented at the 2010 Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival by Susan Schoenian, Sheep & Goat Specialist for University of Maryland Extension.
Conservation of farm animal genetic resourcesIllaya Kumar
India is a vast country, rich in biodiversity. With its geographical area of 329 million hectares, India has almost all the climatic conditions and ecological zones found in different parts of the world, ranging from perpetual snow cover to equatorial and tropical conditions, from mangroves to humid tropics and hot and cold deserts as well as all the intermediate conditions. Before the advent of fossil fuel, animal energy was the only source of farm power and that also mainly from bullocks. In the recent past, a number of native breeds are facing fast genetic degradation and dilution because of intensive production system and unplanned introduction and use of exotic germplasm. This scenario, if continued, might result in depletion of the invaluable native germplasm having better potentiality for production, draught capacity, resistance to diseases and heat tolerance ability. In general, indigenous breeds provide the necessary genetic diversity needed by modern agriculture as a means to ensure stability and are vital building blocks for future livestock breeding programmes. Conservation of indigenous animal is needed for Genetic insurance, Scientific study, Economic potential, Environmental considerations, Cultural and ethical requirements, Energy source by In situ or Ex situ conservation techniques. There are some agencies like NBAGR involved in livestock conservation and the government also implemented projects for breeds conservation. There are many successful stories such as Sabarmathi Ashram goshala in the conservation of native breeds. Many foreign countries have realized the genetic potential of our indigenous breeds and using them for improvement of their germplasm. It is high time to proceed to conserve our germplasm.
This document discusses repeat breeding syndrome in cattle. It defines repeat breeding cows as those that have been bred 3 or more times but not conceived, with normal estrous cycles and no abnormalities. Risk factors include season, metabolic disorders, and nutrition. Causes of repeat breeding include fertilization failure due to issues with the cow or bull, and early embryonic death which accounts for 25% of reproductive wastage before pregnancy recognition. Diagnostic measures include physical exams, ultrasounds, and hormonal tests. Treatment involves addressing nutrition, checking semen quality, using hormones like GnRH and hCG at breeding, and intrauterine antibiotics. Controlling infections, energy balance, and AI timing are important to address repeat breeding.
This document discusses basic beef cattle nutrition. It covers the definition of nutrition and nutrients, including water, protein, carbohydrates, lipids, minerals, vitamins, and fiber. It describes the functions of each nutrient and gives examples of feed sources. The document also discusses factors that affect nutrient requirements, classifications of feeds, and feeding recommendations for different stages of a cattle's life like calves, heifers, dry cows, and cows close to calving.
Reproductive Physiology and Breeding Management in Bitchsubhash gahlot
The document discusses reproductive physiology and breeding management in bitches. It covers topics like the ovarian cycle, signs of estrus, optimum mating times determined by vaginal cytology and hormones, pregnancy diagnosis and signs of impending parturition. Common reproductive problems mentioned include pyometra, dystocia from uterine inertia, prolonged heat and false pregnancy. Guidelines are provided for breeding management including timing of matings based on the estrous cycle and evaluating pregnancy through ultrasound rather than physical signs alone.
The science of synchronization of estrus and ovulation in females has made great strides.
Several protocols that allow producers to precisely schedule insemination of groups of females are available for fixed-time insemination in females.
This document discusses selecting replacement females and culling underperforming females. It covers determining breeding goals, identifying strengths and weaknesses, selecting replacement females using performance evaluation of individual animals and their relatives, and estimated breeding values. Traits like birth weight, growth rates, litter weight, and parasite resistance are important. Record keeping tools to evaluate performance include spreadsheets from universities and software. National programs provide estimated breeding values to compare genetically superior breeding stock.
The document outlines an effective herd health plan for dairy cattle. It emphasizes preventing health problems through practices like vaccination programs, parasite control, mastitis prevention, and keeping accurate records. When problems do occur, prompt treatment and culling chronic cases can help control diseases. The plan aims to produce high quality milk while avoiding drug residues through responsible treatment practices.
This presentation includes native breeds and exotic breeds of nepal, care and management of newly born calf, heifer, pregnant cow, lactating cow, dry cow, breeding bull and working bullocks
1. Proper ration formulation for dairy animals is important to optimize their milk production, reproduction and health. Rations should meet the animals' nutrient needs during different stages and account for factors like milk yield, body weight and forage quality.
2. Balanced rations can improve digestibility, increase milk yield and fat-corrected milk, enhance feed efficiency and reduce production costs. Special care is needed when formulating rations for high producing animals and those in transition periods.
3. Feeding calves requires proper colostrum and liquid feeding initially, followed by transition to solid feed like calf starter to support growth and rumen development. A structured feeding schedule tailored to the calf's age and needs optimizes its
This document discusses the nutrient requirements and feeding of dogs and cats. It outlines the requirements for various nutrients including carbohydrates, protein, fat, minerals, vitamins and water. It also discusses common feedstuffs used in dog and cat foods such as meat and meat by-products, dairy products, eggs, cereals and oils. Finally, it describes different types of dog foods including dry foods, semi-moist foods and canned foods.
This document outlines the schedule and topics for a workshop on sheep and goat management. The first topic is maintaining hoof health, including the three main hoof diseases of foot scald, foot rot, and foot abscesses. Foot rot is highly contagious and difficult to eradicate. Other topics include increasing birthing rates through genetic selection, nutrition management, and culling practices. The final topic is on internal parasite management.
This presentation is from a webinar series on management of the ewe and doe from late gestation through weaning. This presentation is on Neonatal care (care of the lamb and kid from day 0 to day 14).
The Causes and Implications of Subclinical HypocalcemiaDAIReXNET
This document discusses hypocalcemia, also known as milk fever, in dairy cows. It provides information on the incidence of hypocalcemia in US dairy herds, risk factors, and physiological mechanisms. The key strategies for preventing milk fever that are discussed are: 1) avoiding high potassium forages, 2) adding anions like chloride to the diet to reduce blood and urine pH, 3) ensuring adequate dietary magnesium intake, and 4) potentially reducing dietary calcium pre-calving to stimulate PTH release. The document also raises some unknowns about combining prevention strategies and the need to raise calcium levels when using anionic diets.
Animal genetic resources for improved productivity under harsh environmental ...SIANI
Indigenous livestock breeds are well adapted to tropical and harsh environments, but usually rather unproductive. Therefore, crossbreeding with exotic breeds has been practiced, and often found to be successful in the first generation, but with disastrous results later on. Therefore, there is a great need for developing breeding strategies for specific populations of indigenous livestock, both in order to conserve genes necessary for survival under harsh environments, and for genetic improvement of productivity. The objective of this project is to explore the opportunities for genetic improvement of primarily two livestock populations considered of specific importance for food security in Eastern Africa, due to their resilience as regards adverse climatic stress or ability to withstand specific disease challenges in the tropics. In the first case, focus will be on the Red Maasai sheep and its crosses in Kenya and Tanzania. This breed has shown a high degree of resistance to gastrointestinal parasites and ability to withstand drought. However, there is no breeding strategy in place and this project will adopt a value chain approach with the farmers and retailers to establish appropriate breeding objectives and selection practices. We will furthermore study production systems, animal usage, survival, production, et cetera, using various interview methods and also further develop an already created production recording system. In the second study we have focused on comparing four Ethiopian cattle breeds with respect to trypanotolerance and productivity and found that one breed, the Sheko, is clearly superior. We will carry out a workshop with researchers, extension officers and farmers on how to amplify the genes for trypanotolerance into the cattle populations kept in tsetse infested areas.
Presented by Ben Lukuyu and Michael Blummel, ILRI, at the Workshop on Identifying Investment Opportunities for Livestock Feed Resources Development in the Eastern Africa Sub-Region, ILRI Addis, 13-15 December 2017
Reproductive health management in dairy cows in Uganda, Assoc. Prof. Renée BågeSIANI
Reproduction is a key parameter determining the level of production and profitability in a dairy herd. Low fertility leads to productivity losses which can be directly translated into economic loss of great magnitude, and it is also the major reason for involuntary culling of dairy cows.
The project focuses on cows in the period around calving, a time associated with health disturbances that are decisive for the economy of dairy producers. Metritis, inflammation of the uterus, is common after calving with consequences for the cow’s future fertility and milk production level.
The main cause is lacking management and nutrition in this critical time period. Better knowledge of risk factors for metritis and their economic consequences is necessary for the motivation of farmers to adopt preventive measures.
Farms will be visited for gathering of information about management routines around calving. Newly calved cows will be examined for diagnosis of metritis. Practical recommendations will be suggested, adapted to prevailing circumstances. The aim is to keep the cows healthy through the calving process, during the transition from non-lactating to lactating state, for future successful breeding, optimized milk production and longevity.
Capacity-building activities like teaching of university staff (veterinarians) in diagnostic tools like gynecological ultrasonography for diagnosis of reproductive disorders will be performed. A course will be run for farmers on connection between nutrition and reproduction and management of the cow around calving. Workshops for researchers and stakeholders will be arranged.
This PowerPoint is from a seminar originally presented at the 2010 Maryland Sheep & Wool Festival by Susan Schoenian, Sheep & Goat Specialist for University of Maryland Extension.
Conservation of farm animal genetic resourcesIllaya Kumar
India is a vast country, rich in biodiversity. With its geographical area of 329 million hectares, India has almost all the climatic conditions and ecological zones found in different parts of the world, ranging from perpetual snow cover to equatorial and tropical conditions, from mangroves to humid tropics and hot and cold deserts as well as all the intermediate conditions. Before the advent of fossil fuel, animal energy was the only source of farm power and that also mainly from bullocks. In the recent past, a number of native breeds are facing fast genetic degradation and dilution because of intensive production system and unplanned introduction and use of exotic germplasm. This scenario, if continued, might result in depletion of the invaluable native germplasm having better potentiality for production, draught capacity, resistance to diseases and heat tolerance ability. In general, indigenous breeds provide the necessary genetic diversity needed by modern agriculture as a means to ensure stability and are vital building blocks for future livestock breeding programmes. Conservation of indigenous animal is needed for Genetic insurance, Scientific study, Economic potential, Environmental considerations, Cultural and ethical requirements, Energy source by In situ or Ex situ conservation techniques. There are some agencies like NBAGR involved in livestock conservation and the government also implemented projects for breeds conservation. There are many successful stories such as Sabarmathi Ashram goshala in the conservation of native breeds. Many foreign countries have realized the genetic potential of our indigenous breeds and using them for improvement of their germplasm. It is high time to proceed to conserve our germplasm.
This document discusses repeat breeding syndrome in cattle. It defines repeat breeding cows as those that have been bred 3 or more times but not conceived, with normal estrous cycles and no abnormalities. Risk factors include season, metabolic disorders, and nutrition. Causes of repeat breeding include fertilization failure due to issues with the cow or bull, and early embryonic death which accounts for 25% of reproductive wastage before pregnancy recognition. Diagnostic measures include physical exams, ultrasounds, and hormonal tests. Treatment involves addressing nutrition, checking semen quality, using hormones like GnRH and hCG at breeding, and intrauterine antibiotics. Controlling infections, energy balance, and AI timing are important to address repeat breeding.
This document discusses basic beef cattle nutrition. It covers the definition of nutrition and nutrients, including water, protein, carbohydrates, lipids, minerals, vitamins, and fiber. It describes the functions of each nutrient and gives examples of feed sources. The document also discusses factors that affect nutrient requirements, classifications of feeds, and feeding recommendations for different stages of a cattle's life like calves, heifers, dry cows, and cows close to calving.
Reproductive Physiology and Breeding Management in Bitchsubhash gahlot
The document discusses reproductive physiology and breeding management in bitches. It covers topics like the ovarian cycle, signs of estrus, optimum mating times determined by vaginal cytology and hormones, pregnancy diagnosis and signs of impending parturition. Common reproductive problems mentioned include pyometra, dystocia from uterine inertia, prolonged heat and false pregnancy. Guidelines are provided for breeding management including timing of matings based on the estrous cycle and evaluating pregnancy through ultrasound rather than physical signs alone.
The science of synchronization of estrus and ovulation in females has made great strides.
Several protocols that allow producers to precisely schedule insemination of groups of females are available for fixed-time insemination in females.
This document discusses selecting replacement females and culling underperforming females. It covers determining breeding goals, identifying strengths and weaknesses, selecting replacement females using performance evaluation of individual animals and their relatives, and estimated breeding values. Traits like birth weight, growth rates, litter weight, and parasite resistance are important. Record keeping tools to evaluate performance include spreadsheets from universities and software. National programs provide estimated breeding values to compare genetically superior breeding stock.
The document outlines an effective herd health plan for dairy cattle. It emphasizes preventing health problems through practices like vaccination programs, parasite control, mastitis prevention, and keeping accurate records. When problems do occur, prompt treatment and culling chronic cases can help control diseases. The plan aims to produce high quality milk while avoiding drug residues through responsible treatment practices.
This presentation includes native breeds and exotic breeds of nepal, care and management of newly born calf, heifer, pregnant cow, lactating cow, dry cow, breeding bull and working bullocks
1. Proper ration formulation for dairy animals is important to optimize their milk production, reproduction and health. Rations should meet the animals' nutrient needs during different stages and account for factors like milk yield, body weight and forage quality.
2. Balanced rations can improve digestibility, increase milk yield and fat-corrected milk, enhance feed efficiency and reduce production costs. Special care is needed when formulating rations for high producing animals and those in transition periods.
3. Feeding calves requires proper colostrum and liquid feeding initially, followed by transition to solid feed like calf starter to support growth and rumen development. A structured feeding schedule tailored to the calf's age and needs optimizes its
This document discusses the nutrient requirements and feeding of dogs and cats. It outlines the requirements for various nutrients including carbohydrates, protein, fat, minerals, vitamins and water. It also discusses common feedstuffs used in dog and cat foods such as meat and meat by-products, dairy products, eggs, cereals and oils. Finally, it describes different types of dog foods including dry foods, semi-moist foods and canned foods.
This document outlines the schedule and topics for a workshop on sheep and goat management. The first topic is maintaining hoof health, including the three main hoof diseases of foot scald, foot rot, and foot abscesses. Foot rot is highly contagious and difficult to eradicate. Other topics include increasing birthing rates through genetic selection, nutrition management, and culling practices. The final topic is on internal parasite management.
This presentation is from a webinar series on management of the ewe and doe from late gestation through weaning. This presentation is on Neonatal care (care of the lamb and kid from day 0 to day 14).
The Causes and Implications of Subclinical HypocalcemiaDAIReXNET
This document discusses hypocalcemia, also known as milk fever, in dairy cows. It provides information on the incidence of hypocalcemia in US dairy herds, risk factors, and physiological mechanisms. The key strategies for preventing milk fever that are discussed are: 1) avoiding high potassium forages, 2) adding anions like chloride to the diet to reduce blood and urine pH, 3) ensuring adequate dietary magnesium intake, and 4) potentially reducing dietary calcium pre-calving to stimulate PTH release. The document also raises some unknowns about combining prevention strategies and the need to raise calcium levels when using anionic diets.
Animal genetic resources for improved productivity under harsh environmental ...SIANI
Indigenous livestock breeds are well adapted to tropical and harsh environments, but usually rather unproductive. Therefore, crossbreeding with exotic breeds has been practiced, and often found to be successful in the first generation, but with disastrous results later on. Therefore, there is a great need for developing breeding strategies for specific populations of indigenous livestock, both in order to conserve genes necessary for survival under harsh environments, and for genetic improvement of productivity. The objective of this project is to explore the opportunities for genetic improvement of primarily two livestock populations considered of specific importance for food security in Eastern Africa, due to their resilience as regards adverse climatic stress or ability to withstand specific disease challenges in the tropics. In the first case, focus will be on the Red Maasai sheep and its crosses in Kenya and Tanzania. This breed has shown a high degree of resistance to gastrointestinal parasites and ability to withstand drought. However, there is no breeding strategy in place and this project will adopt a value chain approach with the farmers and retailers to establish appropriate breeding objectives and selection practices. We will furthermore study production systems, animal usage, survival, production, et cetera, using various interview methods and also further develop an already created production recording system. In the second study we have focused on comparing four Ethiopian cattle breeds with respect to trypanotolerance and productivity and found that one breed, the Sheko, is clearly superior. We will carry out a workshop with researchers, extension officers and farmers on how to amplify the genes for trypanotolerance into the cattle populations kept in tsetse infested areas.
Presented by Ben Lukuyu and Michael Blummel, ILRI, at the Workshop on Identifying Investment Opportunities for Livestock Feed Resources Development in the Eastern Africa Sub-Region, ILRI Addis, 13-15 December 2017
Livestock research for Africa’s food security and poverty reductionILRI
Presented by Jimmy Smith, Shirley Tarawali, Iain Wright, Suzanne Bertrand, Polly Ericksen, Delia Grace and Ethel Makila at a side event at the 6th Africa Agriculture Science Week, Accra, Ghana, 15-20 July 2013
The sustainable use of animal genetics in developing countriesILRI
The document summarizes a presentation about the sustainable use of animal genetics in developing countries. It notes that demand for livestock products is growing rapidly in Southeast Asia but that lack of private incentives threatens indigenous animal genetic resources. It suggests that ex-situ conservation is one option but in-situ conservation could be facilitated by new market-driven models that create demand for traits in local breeds and by exciting new genomic tools that can increase local breeds' adaptability and productivity.
ILRI in East and Southeast Asia: Summary of current profile and emerging prio...ILRI
Presented by Steve Staal at the Stakeholder Consultation on the ILRI Strategy 2013-2022: Implications for East and Southeast Asia, Bangkok, 31 May 2013
This document summarizes the work of the National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI) in Uganda on livestock research, technology, and innovation related to the dairy value chain. NaLIRRI conducts research in livestock health, nutrition, breeding, and apiculture. Its research focuses on improving animal productivity through technologies like disease-resistant forage varieties, vaccination programs, and cross-breeding indigenous cattle. NaLIRRI also disseminates its research findings to farmers and coordinates with other agencies in the Ministry of Agriculture on priorities like improving dairy cattle genetics and productivity.
This document summarizes an upcoming workshop for a project to establish a Centre for Bee Diseases and Pests in Africa. The project aims to generate knowledge on bee diseases and pests across Africa in order to protect bee colonies, scale up honey production, and support pollination services for crop production. The workshop will bring together stakeholders from participating countries to discuss initial activities, including establishing research facilities in Kenya and four satellite stations in other countries, developing diagnostic tools and management modules, and strengthening capacities of farmers and institutions regarding bee health. The overall goal is to enhance awareness of bee health issues and create an enabling environment for improved control of diseases and pests in Africa.
ILRI's strategy focuses on using livestock research to improve food security and reduce poverty in Africa. It has three strategic objectives: 1) develop and promote sustainable, scalable practices that improve lives through livestock; 2) provide scientific evidence to persuade decision-makers to invest more in livestock; and 3) increase stakeholders' capacity to make better use of livestock science and investments. Key research areas include addressing the biomass crisis in intensifying smallholder systems, managing vulnerability and risk in drylands, improving food safety and addressing aflatoxins, advancing vaccine biosciences, and mobilizing biosciences to achieve food security in Africa. ILRI aims to prove livestock's potential, influence investment, and ensure sufficient capacity to effectively use
Utilizing livestock biodiversity to secure livelihoods: Indigenous sheep in p...ILRI
Presented by Ojango, J., Audho, J. and Okeyo, A.M. (ILRI) at the Concern Worldwide Livestock and Pastoralism Technical Workshop, Namanga, Kenya, 3 October 2012
Smallholder pig value chains development in Uganda ILRI
Presented by Danilo Pezo, Emily OUma, Michel Dione and Brian Kawuma at the Smallholder Pig Value Chain Development Project (SPVCD, CRP 3.7 SPAC and PPMC) Meeting, ILRI Uganda, 7 December 2014
Segenet Kelemu - African edible-insects: diversity and pathway to food and n...SIANI
Segenet Kelemu, Director General of ICIPE (African Insect Science for Food and Health) about the potential of insects as a way to improve food security and nutrition
Innovative use of conventional and new technologies to unravel breed options ...ILRI
Presented by J.M.K. Ojango, R. Mrode and A.M. Okeyo at the 1st World Congress on Innovations for Livestock Development: Fostering Innovations for the Livestock Industry, Nakuru, Kenya, 26–30 June 2016
The Role and Contribution of Plant Breeding and Plant Biotechnology to Sustai...Francois Stepman
Dr. Denis T. Kyetere
Executive Director
AFRICAN AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY FOUNDATION (AATF)
30 - 31 August 2018. Gent-Zwijnaarde, Belgium. IPBO conference 2018: “Scientific innovation for a sustainable development of African agriculture”
This document provides an overview of ILRI and the livestock sector. It discusses:
(1) Facts about the growing livestock sector in developing countries, including rising meat consumption and economic opportunities;
(2) ILRI's mission, strategic objectives, and critical success factors to improve food security and reduce poverty through research on livestock;
(3) ILRI's role in the CGIAR Consortium's Livestock and Fish portfolio focusing on sustainable intensification, value chains, and policies; and
(4) Characteristics of ILRI including its integrated research teams, bioscience facilities, staff and resources.
Participatory Varietal Selection (PVS) and Scaling of Enset landracesafrica-rising
Poster prepared by Zerihun Yemataw, Tesfaye Dejene, Alemar Seid, Sadik Muzemil, Workneh Dubale and Kindu Mekonnen for the Africa RISING Ethiopian Highlands Project Review and Planning Meeting, Addis Ababa, 21–22 May 2019
Semen Banking for conservation of livestock biodiversityKaran Veer Singh
1) Semen banking is an important method for the conservation of livestock biodiversity and genetic resources in India. It involves the collection, evaluation, processing, freezing and storage of semen from genetically important breeding males.
2) For long-term conservation, a minimum of 30,000 semen doses from 15 unrelated bulls is preserved for cattle and buffalo breeds. Quality control measures ensure high post-thaw motility and integrity of stored semen doses.
3) Twenty percent of preserved semen doses for each breed are stored at the National Gene Bank in Karnal, while the remaining eighty percent are stored at regional centers, allowing for distribution and utilization of genetic material.
Role of agricultural biotechnologies in addressing food and nutrition security challenges in Africa: Perspectives from the Agricultural Research Council, South Africa
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The Food Safety Working Group (FSWG) in Vietnam was created in 2015 at the request of the Deputy Prime Minister to address food safety issues in the country. It brings together government agencies, ministries, and development partners to facilitate joint policy dialogue and improve food safety. Over eight years of operations led by different organizations, the FSWG has contributed to various initiatives. However, it faces challenges of diminished government participation over time and dependence on active members. Going forward, it will strengthen its operations by integrating under Vietnam's One Health Partnership framework to better engage stakeholders and achieve policy impacts.
Reservoirs of pathogenic Leptospira species in UgandaILRI
Presentation by Lordrick Alinaitwe, Martin Wainaina, Salome Dürr, Clovice Kankya, Velma Kivali, James Bugeza, Martin Richter, Kristina Roesel, Annie Cook and Anne Mayer-Scholl at the University of Bern Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences Symposium, Bern, Switzerland, 29 June 2023.
Assessing meat microbiological safety and associated handling practices in bu...ILRI
Presentation by Patricia Koech, Winnie Ogutu, Linnet Ochieng, Delia Grace, George Gitao, Lily Bebora, Max Korir, Florence Mutua and Arshnee Moodley at the 8th All Africa Conference on Animal Agriculture, Gaborone, Botswana, 26–29 September 2023.
Ecological factors associated with abundance and distribution of mosquito vec...ILRI
Poster by Max Korir, Joel Lutomiah and Bernard Bett presented the 8th All Africa Conference on Animal Agriculture, Gaborone, Botswana, 26–29 September 2023.
Practices and drivers of antibiotic use in Kenyan smallholder dairy farmsILRI
Poster by Lydiah Kisoo, Dishon M. Muloi, Walter Oguta, Daisy Ronoh, Lynn Kirwa, James Akoko, Eric Fèvre, Arshnee Moodley and Lillian Wambua presented at Tropentag 2023, Berlin, Germany, 20–22 September 2023.
The Microsoft 365 Migration Tutorial For Beginner.pptxoperationspcvita
This presentation will help you understand the power of Microsoft 365. However, we have mentioned every productivity app included in Office 365. Additionally, we have suggested the migration situation related to Office 365 and how we can help you.
You can also read: https://www.systoolsgroup.com/updates/office-365-tenant-to-tenant-migration-step-by-step-complete-guide/
Digital Banking in the Cloud: How Citizens Bank Unlocked Their MainframePrecisely
Inconsistent user experience and siloed data, high costs, and changing customer expectations – Citizens Bank was experiencing these challenges while it was attempting to deliver a superior digital banking experience for its clients. Its core banking applications run on the mainframe and Citizens was using legacy utilities to get the critical mainframe data to feed customer-facing channels, like call centers, web, and mobile. Ultimately, this led to higher operating costs (MIPS), delayed response times, and longer time to market.
Ever-changing customer expectations demand more modern digital experiences, and the bank needed to find a solution that could provide real-time data to its customer channels with low latency and operating costs. Join this session to learn how Citizens is leveraging Precisely to replicate mainframe data to its customer channels and deliver on their “modern digital bank” experiences.
Ivanti’s Patch Tuesday breakdown goes beyond patching your applications and brings you the intelligence and guidance needed to prioritize where to focus your attention first. Catch early analysis on our Ivanti blog, then join industry expert Chris Goettl for the Patch Tuesday Webinar Event. There we’ll do a deep dive into each of the bulletins and give guidance on the risks associated with the newly-identified vulnerabilities.
Driving Business Innovation: Latest Generative AI Advancements & Success StorySafe Software
Are you ready to revolutionize how you handle data? Join us for a webinar where we’ll bring you up to speed with the latest advancements in Generative AI technology and discover how leveraging FME with tools from giants like Google Gemini, Amazon, and Microsoft OpenAI can supercharge your workflow efficiency.
During the hour, we’ll take you through:
Guest Speaker Segment with Hannah Barrington: Dive into the world of dynamic real estate marketing with Hannah, the Marketing Manager at Workspace Group. Hear firsthand how their team generates engaging descriptions for thousands of office units by integrating diverse data sources—from PDF floorplans to web pages—using FME transformers, like OpenAIVisionConnector and AnthropicVisionConnector. This use case will show you how GenAI can streamline content creation for marketing across the board.
Ollama Use Case: Learn how Scenario Specialist Dmitri Bagh has utilized Ollama within FME to input data, create custom models, and enhance security protocols. This segment will include demos to illustrate the full capabilities of FME in AI-driven processes.
Custom AI Models: Discover how to leverage FME to build personalized AI models using your data. Whether it’s populating a model with local data for added security or integrating public AI tools, find out how FME facilitates a versatile and secure approach to AI.
We’ll wrap up with a live Q&A session where you can engage with our experts on your specific use cases, and learn more about optimizing your data workflows with AI.
This webinar is ideal for professionals seeking to harness the power of AI within their data management systems while ensuring high levels of customization and security. Whether you're a novice or an expert, gain actionable insights and strategies to elevate your data processes. Join us to see how FME and AI can revolutionize how you work with data!
Digital Marketing Trends in 2024 | Guide for Staying AheadWask
https://www.wask.co/ebooks/digital-marketing-trends-in-2024
Feeling lost in the digital marketing whirlwind of 2024? Technology is changing, consumer habits are evolving, and staying ahead of the curve feels like a never-ending pursuit. This e-book is your compass. Dive into actionable insights to handle the complexities of modern marketing. From hyper-personalization to the power of user-generated content, learn how to build long-term relationships with your audience and unlock the secrets to success in the ever-shifting digital landscape.
Skybuffer SAM4U tool for SAP license adoptionTatiana Kojar
Manage and optimize your license adoption and consumption with SAM4U, an SAP free customer software asset management tool.
SAM4U, an SAP complimentary software asset management tool for customers, delivers a detailed and well-structured overview of license inventory and usage with a user-friendly interface. We offer a hosted, cost-effective, and performance-optimized SAM4U setup in the Skybuffer Cloud environment. You retain ownership of the system and data, while we manage the ABAP 7.58 infrastructure, ensuring fixed Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and exceptional services through the SAP Fiori interface.
For the full video of this presentation, please visit: https://www.edge-ai-vision.com/2024/06/how-axelera-ai-uses-digital-compute-in-memory-to-deliver-fast-and-energy-efficient-computer-vision-a-presentation-from-axelera-ai/
Bram Verhoef, Head of Machine Learning at Axelera AI, presents the “How Axelera AI Uses Digital Compute-in-memory to Deliver Fast and Energy-efficient Computer Vision” tutorial at the May 2024 Embedded Vision Summit.
As artificial intelligence inference transitions from cloud environments to edge locations, computer vision applications achieve heightened responsiveness, reliability and privacy. This migration, however, introduces the challenge of operating within the stringent confines of resource constraints typical at the edge, including small form factors, low energy budgets and diminished memory and computational capacities. Axelera AI addresses these challenges through an innovative approach of performing digital computations within memory itself. This technique facilitates the realization of high-performance, energy-efficient and cost-effective computer vision capabilities at the thin and thick edge, extending the frontier of what is achievable with current technologies.
In this presentation, Verhoef unveils his company’s pioneering chip technology and demonstrates its capacity to deliver exceptional frames-per-second performance across a range of standard computer vision networks typical of applications in security, surveillance and the industrial sector. This shows that advanced computer vision can be accessible and efficient, even at the very edge of our technological ecosystem.
For the full video of this presentation, please visit: https://www.edge-ai-vision.com/2024/06/temporal-event-neural-networks-a-more-efficient-alternative-to-the-transformer-a-presentation-from-brainchip/
Chris Jones, Director of Product Management at BrainChip , presents the “Temporal Event Neural Networks: A More Efficient Alternative to the Transformer” tutorial at the May 2024 Embedded Vision Summit.
The expansion of AI services necessitates enhanced computational capabilities on edge devices. Temporal Event Neural Networks (TENNs), developed by BrainChip, represent a novel and highly efficient state-space network. TENNs demonstrate exceptional proficiency in handling multi-dimensional streaming data, facilitating advancements in object detection, action recognition, speech enhancement and language model/sequence generation. Through the utilization of polynomial-based continuous convolutions, TENNs streamline models, expedite training processes and significantly diminish memory requirements, achieving notable reductions of up to 50x in parameters and 5,000x in energy consumption compared to prevailing methodologies like transformers.
Integration with BrainChip’s Akida neuromorphic hardware IP further enhances TENNs’ capabilities, enabling the realization of highly capable, portable and passively cooled edge devices. This presentation delves into the technical innovations underlying TENNs, presents real-world benchmarks, and elucidates how this cutting-edge approach is positioned to revolutionize edge AI across diverse applications.
Have you ever been confused by the myriad of choices offered by AWS for hosting a website or an API?
Lambda, Elastic Beanstalk, Lightsail, Amplify, S3 (and more!) can each host websites + APIs. But which one should we choose?
Which one is cheapest? Which one is fastest? Which one will scale to meet our needs?
Join me in this session as we dive into each AWS hosting service to determine which one is best for your scenario and explain why!
Dandelion Hashtable: beyond billion requests per second on a commodity serverAntonios Katsarakis
This slide deck presents DLHT, a concurrent in-memory hashtable. Despite efforts to optimize hashtables, that go as far as sacrificing core functionality, state-of-the-art designs still incur multiple memory accesses per request and block request processing in three cases. First, most hashtables block while waiting for data to be retrieved from memory. Second, open-addressing designs, which represent the current state-of-the-art, either cannot free index slots on deletes or must block all requests to do so. Third, index resizes block every request until all objects are copied to the new index. Defying folklore wisdom, DLHT forgoes open-addressing and adopts a fully-featured and memory-aware closed-addressing design based on bounded cache-line-chaining. This design offers lock-free index operations and deletes that free slots instantly, (2) completes most requests with a single memory access, (3) utilizes software prefetching to hide memory latencies, and (4) employs a novel non-blocking and parallel resizing. In a commodity server and a memory-resident workload, DLHT surpasses 1.6B requests per second and provides 3.5x (12x) the throughput of the state-of-the-art closed-addressing (open-addressing) resizable hashtable on Gets (Deletes).
HCL Notes and Domino License Cost Reduction in the World of DLAUpanagenda
Webinar Recording: https://www.panagenda.com/webinars/hcl-notes-and-domino-license-cost-reduction-in-the-world-of-dlau/
The introduction of DLAU and the CCB & CCX licensing model caused quite a stir in the HCL community. As a Notes and Domino customer, you may have faced challenges with unexpected user counts and license costs. You probably have questions on how this new licensing approach works and how to benefit from it. Most importantly, you likely have budget constraints and want to save money where possible. Don’t worry, we can help with all of this!
We’ll show you how to fix common misconfigurations that cause higher-than-expected user counts, and how to identify accounts which you can deactivate to save money. There are also frequent patterns that can cause unnecessary cost, like using a person document instead of a mail-in for shared mailboxes. We’ll provide examples and solutions for those as well. And naturally we’ll explain the new licensing model.
Join HCL Ambassador Marc Thomas in this webinar with a special guest appearance from Franz Walder. It will give you the tools and know-how to stay on top of what is going on with Domino licensing. You will be able lower your cost through an optimized configuration and keep it low going forward.
These topics will be covered
- Reducing license cost by finding and fixing misconfigurations and superfluous accounts
- How do CCB and CCX licenses really work?
- Understanding the DLAU tool and how to best utilize it
- Tips for common problem areas, like team mailboxes, functional/test users, etc
- Practical examples and best practices to implement right away
Presentation of the OECD Artificial Intelligence Review of Germany
Animal genetic resources for improved productivity under harsh environmental conditions
1. Animal Genetic Resources
for improved productivity
under harsh environmental conditions
Jan Philipsson, Emelie Zonabend, Erling Strandberg
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsla Sweden
James Audho, Julie Ojango, Okeyo Mwai
International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) Global Workshop,
Uganda, December 2012
2. Animal Genetic Resources
for sustainable use in developing countries
70% of livestock breeds found in developing countries
- indigenous breeds in SSA often adapted to harsh conditions
Huge ruminant populations but many animals unproductive
Lack of long term breeding strategies and neglect of the
genetic potential of some indigenous breeds
Market forces introduced exotic breeds for short term gains
- Indiscriminate ”upgrading” of indigenous breeds
Many valuable indigenous breeds become endangered
3. The Challenge in use of Animal Genetic
Resources in Developing Countries
Meet increasing demands for Must utilize the potential of
food of animal origin on an the AnGR and increase the
increasingly competitive market productivity per animal!
without environmental
degradation of land and water Develop relevant Animal
Breeding Programs
considering the needs
for future genetic diversity
The present study involves two
endangered indigenous breeds
TT
with specifically valuable attributes
4. Trypanotolerance of indigenous cattle
breeds in tsetse infested areas of Ethiopia
Trypanosomosis (sleeping sickness)
– one of the most disastrous animal diseases in the
tropics with the tsetse fly as vector
Sub-Saharan Africa
60 million heads of cattle
exposed to risk
3 million heads lost annually
Ethiopia
Trypanosomosis covers 15 % of all arable
land and hinders human inhabitation
10 - 14 million heads of cattle exposed to risk
5. Some breeds show “trypanotolerance”
Capacity of an animal to control the development of the
parasites and to limit their pathological effects
Four indigenous breeds in SW Ethiopia investigated
Collaboration with Ethiopian Institute for Agricultural Research
Farmer interviews – perceptions about diseases
Field investigations by blood analyses for PCV
and parasitaemia
On station comparison of breeds for production,
diseases and survival
Abigar Gurage Horro Sheko
6. Trypanosomosis - Infection rate
Sheko - superior trypanotolerance in all three studies
but is an endangered breed – needs to be conserved!
7. Breeding for Trypanotolerance
Results presented in a PhD thesis
and shared at a workshop with all
Ethiopian stakeholders
The remaining issue is how to
conserve the breed and disseminate
genes for trypanotolerance to the
broader livestock populations in
tsetse infested areas of Ethiopia
MoA taken results onboard for
translation of results into practice
including a proposal to IFAD for
action research
8. The case of
Red Maasai sheep
Indigenous breed kept in Kenya
and neighbouring countries
Indiscriminately crossed with
Dorper for better meat production
Red Maasai population drastically
declining – endangered breed
Recurrent severe droughts show
higher survival of Red Maasai
How to conserve Red Maasai
sheep and increase productivity
for food security and better
livelihood?
9. The Dorper breed
Imported from South Africa
Composite breed of Dorset
and Blackhead Persian
breeds
Meat type breed
Not adopted to harsh
climatic conditions
– problem to survive droughts
Uncontrolled crossbreeding
with Red Maasai
11. Materials and methods
Pilot sheep recording scheme
in two Maasai village areas
Data on live weights, fertility
and health for farmer information
and genetic analyses
- similar data from two research ranches (Kapiti and Naivasha)
Baseline study on production system, markets and social
aspects of sheep production
- extra focus on gender issues
Interviews for assessment of breeding objectives
Design of alternative breeding strategies
Outreach workshops for sharing results and for
capacity building
12. Recording growth, health and fertility
on Red Maasai, Dorper sheep and their crosses
Fertility Ear tagging Defining age
Interviews Linear Measurements Weighing
13. Breeding objectives
set by interviewing farmers and middlemen and butchers
Farmers Middlemen
Farmers Middlemen
Butchers
Butchers
15. What farmers want to improve in their ewes
Relative percentage of responses
16. Potential breeding strategy
Red Maasai Sheep
Constitutes the main female flock
Purebreeding for improvement of maternal and survival traits
partly used for crossbreeding to produce slaughter lambs
Dorper Sheep
Use as terminal ram breed for controlled crossbreeding to
produce slaughter lambs
Selection for growth, health and survival
17. Outcomes and Implications
Closer links between the pastoralists, the local stakeholders,
ILRI and SLU in research for development efforts leading to:
- Increased interest for improvement of indigenous animal genetic
resources as a pathway out of poverty
- Change in animal selection practices within communities
- Enhanced awareness and access to market information and
alternative markets by livestock keepers
Sharing of collective partner experiences and building on
these to ensure better joint outcomes
18. Way forward for the collaboration
Build on the results and achievements to jointly secure
resources in order to deliver results to scale (i.e. to other
regions and countries) and inform future action-research
designs and plans in the region
Target private partners to support innovative livestock
recording systems and community based breeding programs
in developing countries
Broaden the partnership to include other disciplines from
either parties
Attract more and facilitate younger SLU scientists´
participation to ensure continuity
An example of long-standing fruitful
cooperation between SLU and ILRI
19. better lives through livestock
ilri.org
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Editor's Notes
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In most developing countries the picture is rather different -the environment variable and so also the production systems, even within a village you can find many different production systems –imagine with a country. -the feed supply and vet services may be lacking –for example where I am having my project working southern Kenya there is basically no feed and no veterinary access... -very little infrastructure is usually available, in Africa for example only South Africa, Botswana and Kenya has a functioning recording system. -People from the west and industrilized countries often tell that their animals are better and they produce so much –they are brought to the developing country and people start to crossbred without having a strict plan for it and the exotic breed is not adopted to the environment -and in the end the whole flock may die when the environment changes slightly. -We have seen so many breeding strategies starting up and they say it will improve the breed through crossbreeding –and so far everything is fine –but than it becomes uncontrolled and they have no long term strategies how to keep it and it all fails It is soo common to see indigenous breeds that are well adopted to its environment, that has a rather low productivity –and instead of keeping that breed and select among it and breed for an increase productivity people just bring in exotic breeds that they have to keep feeding sooo much.... What we need to do is to realize the potential in exotic breeds and increase the productivity of those. -some examples are these ones... Do you think our sheep would survive here? Do you think they have a well developed feed/vet/and infrastructure set up? –no they have to stand this dry environment and eat only this soil...
Glossina spp. Found in warm and humid mid altitude areas in riverine vegetation, savannah woodlands and woody forests Ethiopia 10-14 million heads of cattle an equivalent number of small ruminants, horses and camels are exposed to the risk of trypanosomosis.
The four breeds investigated are the Abigar, Gurage, Horro and Sheko. The Sheko breed is the only remaining Bos taurus breed in eastern Africa, and is anecdotally believed to be trypanotolerant. According to a recent census count there are only approximately 2400 Sheko animals. The livestock keepers in the area also perform more or less uncontrolled crossbreeding with local Zebu, and the Sheko is therefore classified as endangered.
Important that keepers know how to correctly diagnose trypanosomosis Abigar 23 % Gurage 20 % Horro 17 % Sheko 5 %
The ability to survive and produce in tsetse infested areas! Humpless Longhorn 6000 B.C. Shorthorn 2500 B.C. Humped Zebu 700 A.D.
The Dorper breed was introduced in Kenya to increase weight gain of lambs and to get fast growing animals for a more demanding market for meat, primarily by use of crossbreeding. And it worked when years were food with rain and pasture. The issue was that farmers never got instructions about how to maintain a pure Red Maasai for a continuous crossbreeding program and many farmers continued to “ upgrade ” their local flocks by crossing with Dorper even though it was not really suitable for some of the harsh environments.
The introduction of the Dorper breed really led to indiscriminate crossbreeding all across the country. Nowadays it is hard to travel in the field and find pure bred Red Maasai Sheep
We started with baseline surveys about the homestead and production system of the farmers by interviewing them. All sheep were ear tagged to get the identities secured. Thereafter we have set up an individual sheep recording system as a pilot scheme where we record weights at different ages and taking linear body measurements, and also health, fertility and survival. All the measurements are recorded continuously ever third month. The data are stored in a database at ILRI and SLU.
Now we have just finished the field part where we are trying set the breeding objectives for the sheep. In this part we are using a participatory approach. All individual farmers, selected the best, average and the poorest ewe in each breed group, Red Maasai, Dorper and crosses, in their own flock; and also the best young rams. Then the farmers had to give reasons to clarify why that animal was best, average or poor. A similar approach was used with middlemen and butchers. The butchers also evaluated carcasses in a specific study. With the information from our records and interviews, including farmer ’ s desires and market demands, we will develop inclusive and robust breeding objectives. Thereafter selection criteria and alternative breeding strategies to sustainably improve flock productivity and profitability will be simulated. Analyses of all these data, will give results needed to develop tools to be used for selection of strong, healthy and meaty animals that survive the harsh climate and that are still productive in line with preferences of both farmers and butchers. By the use of simulation studies we will simulate the best alternatives of breeding programs to recommend for farmers including both pure breeding and controlled crossbreeding.