The contribution of chevon from Africa to global meat production

Africa’s goat population increased by 75% between 1980 and 2005 and constitutes 30% of the world goat population. Although Africa produces about 20% of the world’s chevon, its share of world chevon market has been declining. Exports from Africa represent less than 5% of the total world trade. Most goats are raised by smallholder farmers for subsistence and trading in informal markets. The world renowned Boer, Kalahari Red and Savanna goats are meat breeds that were developed in South Africa. Information on most African goat breeds is scanty, but there seems to be large variations in the breed characteristics, which suggests a potential for selective breeding for more and meat breeds. Recommendations for enhancing goat production in Africa include, prioritizing research and technology transfer on meat goat production, development of more chevon breeds, devising methods to enhance the quality of African chevon through pre- and post-harvest interventions, and improved support from government institutions and policy.