Chuka University has reaffirmed its commitment to transforming Africa's livestock sector through science, innovation, and regional partnerships after hosting the 3rd Summer School Regional Training on Assisted Reproductive Technologies in Livestock Breeding.
The high-level programme, organised in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and other development partners, brought together researchers, veterinary specialists, livestock breeders, biotechnologists, and agricultural experts from 28 African countries.
Held in Tharaka Nithi County, the training focused on modern reproductive technologies that can improve livestock productivity, strengthen breeding programmes, and contribute to sustainable food systems across the continent.
Technology as the Future of Livestock Production
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Chuka University Council Chairman Prof. David Serem said Africa must embrace scientific innovation and stronger institutional partnerships to overcome persistent food insecurity.
He noted that livestock remains one of the continent's most valuable economic sectors, supporting millions of families through employment, nutrition, trade, and household income. However, the industry continues to face significant obstacles, including:
- Low reproductive efficiency
- Limited genetic improvement
- Climate change impacts
- Emerging livestock diseases
- Rising demand for animal-source foods
According to Prof. Serem, these challenges require practical, research-driven solutions rather than traditional approaches alone.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Prof. Serem highlighted the growing importance of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) in modern livestock breeding.
These technologies include:
- Artificial insemination
- Embryo transfer
- Reproductive biotechnology
- Advanced genetic improvement techniques
He explained that wider adoption of these innovations can accelerate genetic improvement, increase reproductive success, preserve valuable livestock genetics, and help farmers produce healthier, more productive animals.
Improved breeding systems, he added, will ultimately increase food production, raise farmers' incomes, strengthen resilience against climate change, and support sustainable agricultural development across Africa.
More Than a Training Programme
Beyond classroom learning, the Summer School served as a continental platform for scientific collaboration and professional networking.
Participants exchanged research findings, shared practical experiences, and explored new opportunities for collaborative projects aimed at solving common livestock production challenges facing African countries.
Prof. Serem said the knowledge shared during the programme would continue benefiting institutions long after the event concluded.
He added that the partnerships formed during the training would strengthen research capacity while accelerating innovation in livestock breeding throughout the region.
Expanding Research Leadership
Prof. Serem noted that hosting the continental programme reflects Chuka University's growing reputation as a regional centre of excellence in:
- Agricultural research
- Biotechnology
- Livestock science
- Sustainable development
He said the university remains committed to producing research and innovations that directly support national, regional, and global development goals.
According to him, improving Africa's food security requires universities, governments, research institutions, development agencies, and the private sector to work together rather than in isolation.
Vice Chancellor Calls for Stronger African Collaboration
Chuka University Vice Chancellor Prof. Henry Mutembei said agriculture continues to be one of the institution's flagship areas in teaching, research, and community engagement.
He attributed the university's growing international recognition to continued investment in research infrastructure, postgraduate education, and global partnerships.
Prof. Mutembei encouraged African researchers to deepen collaboration in addressing shared livestock production challenges.
He observed that scientific progress thrives when knowledge is exchanged freely and experts work together across borders.
The Vice Chancellor expressed optimism that the Summer School would inspire new research partnerships and practical innovations capable of transforming livestock production across Africa.
Supporting Africa's Food Security Agenda
As pressure grows to produce more food for a rapidly increasing population, experts agree that improving livestock breeding will play a crucial role in strengthening food and nutrition security across the continent.
By bringing together specialists from nearly thirty African nations, Chuka University has demonstrated the value of regional cooperation in advancing agricultural science and developing technologies that can benefit farmers for generations to come.
The institution's continued investment in livestock research, biotechnology, and international collaboration positions it as an important contributor to Africa's long-term agricultural transformation.
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