The National Institute of Agronomic Research (INRA) recently hosted a conference titled “Animal Genetics: The Response of Research, Development and Innovation for a Sustainable Livestock System in Morocco.” Participants emphasized the urgent need to enhance research and innovation to better utilize local animal breeds to ensure the sector’s resilience against climate challenges.
Strategic Pillars for Food Sovereignty
Lamiae Ghaouti, Director of the INRA, stated that mastering animal genetics is a fundamental pillar for achieving food sovereignty. This expertise is seen as a strategic lever to increase productivity and improve performance while strengthening production chains against climate hazards and natural resource scarcity.
Ghaouti highlighted that while Morocco possesses a diverse range of animal breeds, some local varieties remain under-exploited despite their robustness. She called for an integrated vision that balances the preservation of genetic heritage with productive efficiency through intensified research and development.
The Role of Local Breed Preservation
Mohammed Bengoumi, an expert with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), underscored that animal genetics is crucial for the survival of breeds and global food security. He noted that local breeds are a national asset due to their high resistance to diseases and ability to adapt to harsh climatic conditions.
Bengoumi praised the collaborative efforts between the INRA and other competent parties to improve and sustainably exploit these genetic resources. This work is viewed as essential for guaranteeing future food security and the sustainability of life.
Innovation in Action: The INRA 180 Breed
Practical success was highlighted by breeder El Mrini Kotb, who has utilized the “INRA 180” breed in the Zaër region for 12 years. He described the breed as highly productive and well-adapted to its environment.
The INRA 180 breed is characterized by exceptional fertility, with the ability to give birth twice a year. Kotb noted that its reproduction rate reaches 160%, significantly higher than other breeds that may not exceed a 95% rate.
Supporting National Expertise
During the event, researcher Moussa El Fadili was honored for his contributions to national genetic improvement research within the INRA. El Fadili stated that this recognition confirms the Institute’s commitment to supporting national talent contributing to the agricultural sector.
He explained that the development of breeds like the INRA 180 aims to increase red meat productivity in arable zones. This initiative could potentially improve the supply of national markets and slaughterhouses while ensuring self-sufficiency in this vital sector.
Event Context
The conference took place during a larger Salon that continues until April 28. The event features over 1,500 exhibitors, 500 cooperatives, 200 breeders, and 45 foreign delegations, with expectations of over 1.1 million visitors.
For more information on agricultural developments, you may visit this report on agro-meteorological services.
Future Outlook
Based on the goals discussed, the INRA may continue to expand its dialogue between scientific experts and field actors to find more innovative solutions. A possible next step could involve the wider adoption of the INRA 180 breed across other arable regions to further boost red meat production.
the call for an integrated vision suggests that Morocco is likely to intensify its research and development efforts to fully map the genetic characteristics of various local species to prevent further biodiversity loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is animal genetics considered a strategic lever for Morocco?
We see viewed as essential for achieving food sovereignty, increasing productivity, and improving the resilience of animal production chains against climate change and the scarcity of natural resources.
What makes the INRA 180 breed superior to others?
The INRA 180 breed is noted for its high productivity and adaptation. Specifically, it has a reproduction rate of 160% and can give birth twice a year, whereas other breeds may have reproduction rates below 95%.
What are the main risks facing animal breeds globally?
As noted by FAO expert Mohammed Bengoumi, breeds are threatened by climate change, the introduction of exotic breeds, and a lack of adequate conservation programs.
Do you believe that prioritizing local breed resilience over exotic high-yield varieties is the most sustainable path for national food security?
