Regional Model Policy Legal Framework (Genetic Resources)

Preface

The outcome of a study undertaken to explore the existing situation in relation to policies and regulatory frameworks for animal genetic resources in the IGAD region formed the basis for this document. It is a practical guide to develop model policy and legal frameworks related to conservation and sustainable utilization of animal genetic resources.

Specifically, the framework addresses issues of access to, and equitable distribution of benefits accrued from the use of those genetic resources. The model policy and legal frameworks are expected to be adopted by member states.

Indigenous livestock in the IGAD region are vital to the economies of its
members and the livelihood of livestock keepers. The significant diversity in the region’s animal genetic resources and its importance to animal agriculture cannot be ignored or over emphasized.

In mostly arid and semi-arid area where crop production is limited, indigenous animal genetic resources remain the main means of utilizing land and feed resources. Within the IGAD member states, the way indigenous animals are kept is of low input and low output system. For instance, for generations, animals were subjected to natural and human selection for adaptability, and were not adequately responsive to intensive type of production.

It’s against this background that policies in all countries in the region support the introduction of exotic animals for the simple reason that they are less adapted yet greatly suited to high input intensive production system.

It is important to note that success with the introduction of exotic animals is limited because over the years, the indiscriminate use of exotic animals has become a threat to indigenous animals due to dilution. This challenge affects mostly cattle and chicken breeds. Because of the diversity indigenous animals have, they can be treated as reservoir of genetic variability that can be tapped at the present and in the future.