Conservation of Indigenous Livestock : Sustaining Biodiversity for Current and Future Generations

This report, presented by Roger Blench, Managing Director of Mallam Dendo Ltd, UK, considers some of the current challenges involved in the conservation of indigenous livestock. The importance of livestock biodiversity in reducing the risks faced by manyu poor rural households is described in the context of accelerating erosion of livestock diversity. The role of science in identifying genetic resources and the implications of emerging techniques for science based policy are also discussed. The need for coherent policies on livestock is highlighted focusing on a framework that allows input from evolving science, the implementation of the Convention of Biodiversity, regional policies, and a re-orientation of research and extension towards species and uses relevant to poor people. This report was discussed during the Stakeholder meeting at AGM2005.