Presented by Okeyo Mwai at the Launch of the Dairy Genetics East Africa Project (DGEA), ILRI Campus, Nairobi, 9 February 2011

1. Dairy Genetics East AfricaProject Objectives & Sites Presented by Okeyo Mwai(ILRI) at the Launch of the Dairy Genetics East Africa ProjectILRI campus, Nairobi, 9 February 2011

2. Problem Statement Although past & current dairy improvement programs have clear livelihood potential&integrated approach (i.e.linking to markets; improving management and improving genetics) Theylack clear genetic strategy! - default is often to upgrade to exotics Even when conditions are unsuitable! “no one-size-fits-all situations”

3. Similar challenges but different “strategies”

4. Different Environments- different genetics!

5. Who among these is happier?

6. Objectives Determine appropriate cattle genotypes for smallholder dairy farmers in Eastern Africa Develop partnership and business model to sustainably deliver the desired germplasm to smallholders

8. Combine this with traditional and participatory appraisal of animal and farm performance

10. Change genotype but don’t change management

11. Change management but don’t change genetics

12. Change management and genotype

13. Change management and genotype

14. Optimum genotype depends on environment

16. Range of genotypes within sites: we need sites with a reasonable “mix” of breeds

17. Agro ecological zones: sub-tropical through temperate AEZ

18. Logistics (accessibility): Easier logistics and access = lower costs and faster implementation

20. Thank you