TITLE:
Strategies for Advancing Beef Cattle Breeding in Tanzania: A Review of Past and Current Practices and Future Directions
AUTHORS:
Kabuni Thomas Kabuni, Timothy Parkinson, Richard Laven, Andy Peters, Erick Vitus Gabriel Komba
KEYWORDS:
Artificial Insemination (AI), Beef Cattle Breeds, Breeding Strategies, Genetic Improvement
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.13 No.5,
May
27,
2026
ABSTRACT: This review examines strategies for advancing beef cattle breeding in Tanzania, analysing historical and current practices, and proposing future directions. Historically, cattle breeding efforts began in 1905, with an initial focus on animal husbandry and disease research. Later work emphasized cattle breeding and established a central registry in 1951. Post-independence, Artificial Insemination (AI) services were introduced, but faced challenges including funding shortages and centralized services. Currently, although AI is the most used Assisted Reproductive Technology in Tanzania, its adoption remains limited due to centralized services, lack of skilled technicians, and high costs. The dominant use of natural mating, particularly with untested bulls, contributes to poor fertility and inbreeding among indigenous breeds like the Tanzania Shorthorn Zebu, which constitutes 95% of the cattle population. To improve the beef cattle breeding system, strategic investments are vital. These should include establishing nucleus breeding herds, implementing performance recording and genetic evaluation systems, improving AI and Embryo Transfer infrastructure, and exploring genomic selection technologies. Addressing feed and nutrition through improved pasture, dry-season supplementation, and feed processing technologies is also crucial. Furthermore, strengthening animal health programs, upgrading breeding facilities, implementing livestock identification systems, and building capacity through training and extension services are necessary. Policy interventions, financial incentives, and value chain development would further enhance the sector’s growth, promoting sustainable practices and improving farmer livelihoods.