The National Camel Breeding Program (2026–2035) establishes Ethiopia’s framework for improving camel production and productivity through planned genetic improvement, selective breeding and conservation of indigenous genetic resources. It responds to the limited characterisation and use of Ethiopia’s camel genetic potential, inadequate performance records and insufficient investment in breeding systems. The Programme prioritises improved milk yield and quality, meat production and carcass quality, reproductive performance, disease resistance and adaptation to arid and semi-arid conditions, supporting food and nutrition security, poverty reduction and pastoral and agro-pastoral livelihoods. The Programme proposes pure breeding, line breeding, controlled crossbreeding, community-based breeding programmes and central nucleus breeding schemes tailored to pastoral, agro-pastoral and urban or peri-urban production systems. Four initial community-based programmes will function as nucleus herds, supported by producer cooperatives, controlled mating groups and the distribution of selected superior males. Reproductive and biotechnological tools, including artificial insemination, oestrus synchronisation, embryo transfer and genomic selection, may accelerate genetic gains, while pedigree control, genetic monitoring and separate management of purebred and crossbred populations are intended to prevent inbreeding and uncontrolled dilution of locally adapted traits. Implementation covers animal identification, performance recording, establishment of nucleus and sub-nucleus herds, progeny testing, selection of proven males and replacement females, training and development of culling criteria.
Éthiopie · 2026-04-01