Genomic Advancements in Assessing Growth Performance, Meat Quality, and Carcass Characteristics of Goats in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Goats play a vital role in global livestock systems, particularly in developing regions, where they contribute significantly to meat production and smallholder livelihoods. Indigenous goats in sub-Saharan Africa are essential to low-input farming systems, valued for their adaptability to harsh environments and their provision of meat, milk, and income. However, genomic research on these goats remains limited despite their importance. Recent advancements in genomic technologies, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), genome-wide association (GWAS) studies, and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) mapping, have identified key genes like <i>MSTN</i>, <i>IGF1</i>, and <i>CAST</i>. These genes influence muscle growth, fat deposition, and meat tenderness, which are critical for improving growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality. Genomic selection offers a promising avenue for enhancing economically valuable traits, such as faster growth rates and adaptability to challenging climates. This review highlights the potential of integrating genomic tools with traditional breeding practices to optimise goat production systems, enhance meat quality, and improve economic outcomes for farmers. It also underscores the need for further research to fully characterise the genetic diversity of indigenous goat breeds in sub-Saharan Africa. Addressing these knowledge gaps could significantly contribute to the region's food security and sustainable farming practices.