0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

45

1-3 mm > 3-6 mm > 6 mm

Bla

stoc

yst y

ield

(%)

Follicle size group

Comparative blastocyst yield for different follicle sizes

Grade A

Grade B

Average

Utilizing state of the art reproductive technologies to produce and deliver appropriate cattle genotypes

•  Highly reproductive •  Adapted to harsh environments

•  High milk production potential •  Poorly adapted to low input systems

Sexed semen

Harvested Oocytes through

OPU

IVEP Embryos •  Natural grazing conditions •  Good recipient capabilities

Results

SIFET Calves

From Boran cows, even small follicles produce high quality (grade A) blastocysts

April 2010

The good news is … Availability  &  affordability  of  SIFET  is  limited

And the not so good news is …

Indigenous  breeds  are  excellent  oocytes  donors  and  surrogates  

Partners: UoN, EMBRAPA Brazil, ADC, CAIS, Kakuzi ranch, Ol Pajeta ranch, Dagoretti Slaughter Houses

  Suitable dairy heifer genotypes for low input systems are in short supply   Some indigenous cattle breeds are threatened and should be conserved

By: Mutembei H, Muasa B, Muraya J, Okeyo AM

Embryo Transfer

SIFET Laboratory

Boran cows as surrogates

Embryos and oocytes available for conservation, breed improvement and diagnostic studies

Sexed semen, In-vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer (SIFET) and Ovum Pick-Up (OPU) technologies offer opportunities for better utilization and conservation of

indigenous cattle and can produce animals of strategic value

Exotic bulls Indigenous cows