The Institut de l'Environnement et de Recherches Agricoles (INERA) in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso has been technically supported in the fields of animal nutrition, reproduction and breeding for more than 10 years by the IAEA. The TC project BKF5008 initiated in 2007, provided the first steps in the development of animal genetic laboratory at the Centre de recherches environnementales et de formation (INERA-CREAF). The so-called “genetic laboratory” in the early stage consisted of a small table in a shared room with other laboratories where blood and tissue samples were processed for DNA extraction. Basic equipment was initially provided and later, through TC BKF5008, TC BKF5011 and BKF 5021, the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre provided additional equipment and much required scientific training.
Through these projects, a PhD student was trained in animal genetics at Servicio Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario (SERIDA) in Spain, and INERA´s professionals and technical staff were trained at IAEA Seibersdorf’s laboratories on DNA extraction, PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) amplification of DNA markers, genotyping using automated DNA sequencers, extraction of genotypic data using various computer applications and data analysis using open source software.
During this initiative, hundreds of DNA samples were analyzed from various sheep and goat breeds, including those from Sahelian and Djallonke breeds, to assist farmers in their fight against trypanosomosis and gastro-intestinal parasites. Genotypic data were matched with performance data resulting in a set of characteristics that were associated with resistance to these diseases. By this means, farmers can now identify and select suitable animals for breeding while reducing the risk of trypanosomosis and parasitic diseases.
Besides, several cattle breeds of Burkina Faso have been genetically characterized in the new laboratory and other popluations, including horses and poultry are being analyzed. This is expected to facilitate the understanding of the genetic value of these populations and in the near future, together with productive and reproductive data, breeding programmes can be initiated/strengthened by selecting animals carrying genes of economically important traits. INERA and its local partners are currently implementing a new TC Project BKF 5021, titled “Improving Local Poultry Production Through Incorporation of Nutraceuticals in Feeds and Genetic Characterization”. The outcomes of this project are expected to facilitate boosting livestock and poultry productivity, farmers’ livelihoods and food security in the country.