Current data is not available for many countries because of unrest and drought. As in other regions, the continued drive towards intensification and specialization has resulted in the increased reliance on a small number of breeds to meet the demand for food. FAO said that using as many breeds as possible is likely to be the most cost-effective way of conserving and developing the animal genetic gene pool for the future. Sustainable utilisation and conservation are critical technical elements of the 'Global Strategy for the Management of Farm Animal Genetic Resources', which is currently being developed by FAO to assist countries. The management of animal genetic resources should involve all people, from farmers to policy makers.
Broader participation means better development and use of animal genetic resources.
On the request of countries, FAO is now embarking on a major five-year project that will assist countries to evaluate all aspects of their state of the farm animal genetic resources, their priorities for action in breed development and conservation, and their needs. It is particularly well adapted to the different climate zones in Madagascar and provides meat and draught power. In Mexico, the Chiapas sheep has been reared for almost 500 years in the highlands of the State of Chiapas. Indigenous women produce wool for their clothing and for sale. Sheep are considered sacred, and people do not consume lamb or mutton.