Nairobi: The Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH) is leveraging innovative techniques to measure methane emissions from livestock, paving the way for enhanced mitigation strategies. In this context, livestock, particularly ruminants, are significant contributors to climate change through the production of greenhouse gases like methane and carbon dioxide.
According to Kenya News Agency, Prof. Mizeck Chagunda, Director of CTLGH, spoke at the International Greenhouse Gas and Animal Agriculture Conference in Nairobi, emphasizing the potential of breeding programs designed to select animals with lower methane emissions. These efforts, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, are underway at CTLGH's research nodes in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Scotland, focusing on breeding animals that are more productive, healthy, feed-efficient, and resilient to environmental challenges.
Prof. Chagunda highlighted CTLGH's commitment to sustainable livestock systems through genomic and bioscientific innovations that enhance livestock health, resilience, and environmental sustainability, ultimately boosting productivity and reducing greenhouse gas intensity. The mission is to enhance food security in low- and middle-income countries by improving livestock productivity, adaptability, and sustainability in tropical systems through genetic advancements.
CTLGH's work spans dairy, poultry, and capacity building, training young African scientists. Prof. Chagunda pointed out the disparity in production systems between Africa and Europe, using the example of milk production, where the same breed of cattle produces significantly less milk in Africa. CTLGH aims to bridge this gap by applying advanced breeding technologies tailored to local conditions.
One major challenge in tropical livestock is East Coast fever, a disease that can decimate entire flocks. CTLGH's research is focused on genetic solutions to make livestock survive outbreaks and resist heat, working with partners like the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI). The goal is to identify genetic factors that offer protection against diseases like ECF.
Prof. Chagunda announced progress in developing a system to evaluate and rank the genetic merit of individual animals, allowing farmers to select optimal breeding stock. This initiative is part of a program set to conclude in September 2027 but aims to launch soon, with ongoing discussions with national governments and collaborators.
CTLGH has also introduced the 'Trusted Research Environment,' a platform designed for secure and transparent data sharing among commercial companies, breeders, farmers, and governments. This initiative is expected to facilitate data sharing and accelerate livestock development.
Kenya's livestock sector is a crucial component of the economy and food security, contributing 12 percent to GDP and employing 50 percent of agricultural labor. This sector includes cattle, sheep, goats, camels, and poultry, underscoring the importance of CTLGH's work in enhancing livestock productivity and sustainability.