Genetic Resources

In order to provide provinces and other interested stakeholders with a better understanding of the driving forces, consequences and potential responses to the developments of the livestock sector, FAnGR carries out regular retro- and prospective livestock sector assessments and develops strategies and policies for mitigating negative and enhancing positive impacts of conservation and sustainable use of animals.

FAnGR monitors national and provincial livestock sector trends, paying particular attention to the loss of animal genetic diversity. In formulating strategies and related policy options for the livestock sector development, FAnGR takes into account the total costs and benefits of different forms of animal production as well as their distribution. Furthermore, it develops tools for animal policy analysis and methodologies for policy formulation designed to assist policy makers to direct the livestock sector towards attaining conservation and sustainable use objectives

For its prospective livestock sector studies, FAnGR collaborates closely with DAFF’s Animal Production; Research and Policy Development; Agricultural Statistics and Small holder directorates.

The FAnGR is entrusted with providing objective, timely and comprehensive information on national and provincial livestock sector trends to the department and the international community. This information is required to support evidence-based animal policy decision-making at various levels to successfully manage the conservation and sustainable use of national animal production.

The sub-directorate maintains an information and knowledge system on national animal agriculture based on systematic compilation of relevant information provided by provinces and research institutions, complemented by commissioned studies to fill important information gaps. Furthermore, FAnGR maintains networks of expertise in various domains of animal genetic resources and development.

Information is made available through web-based information systems such as the Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS), covering the status of farm animal genetic resources.

FAnGR raises awareness about conservation and sustainable use of through participation in relevant meetings, organization of consultations, press releases and information dissemination through the media.