Abstract:
About 85% of Ethiopian popula on has a subsistence mode of crop and livestock produc on. This form of
agriculture contributes a large share of the gross national products (GNP). Livestock contribute 30-35% of total
GDP. A review was made to assess the genetic diversity of animal genetic resources in Ethiopia, to develop
conservation strategy and efficient utilization of indigenous animal genetic resources. Ethiopia can be
considered as a center of livestock diversity and diverse traditional livestock breeds spread across diverse
ecology, communities and production systems. This diversity of livestock is closely related to the diversity of
production systems and cultures. Currently, the indigenous livestock genetic resources in Ethiopia are
becoming seriously endangered due to high rate of genetic erosion resulting from biotic and a biotic factor.
Thus, there is a need to develop conservation strategies for management of these livestock genetic resources
in the country which should be cost effective and utilization to meet the needs of present and future
generations. For sustainable utilization, the conservation strategy must be contributed to the national food
security program; have high commercial/export value. Methods of conservation of livestock genetic resources
to support future livestock improvement can be grouped as in-situ, ex-situ and combined conservation.
Therefore, detailed analysis of the extent, distribution and diversity of livestock, good understanding on the
integrity of livestock with social, religious and culture of the society and management is vital for sustainable
utilization and livestock conservation strategy in the country.
