ELEVAGE DE LANE (EQUUS ASINUS): GENERALITES, ROLES, DEFIS DE LHEURE ET PERSPECTIVES

Donkey breeding (Equus asinus): Generalities, Roles, Current Challenges and Perspectives The domestic donkey Equus asinus is found in many parts of the world. Its use varies from country to culture. The aim of this report is to review the current state of knowledge on the breeding of this animal. An exhaustive literature review revealed that the domestic donkey originated on the African continent and the wild Nubian donkey (Equus africanus) is generally considered to be its ancestor. Africa accounts for almost two-thirds (2/3) of the worlds donkey population. It is followed by Asia and the America. There are several systems of asin breeding in the world, but the mixed and small-scale system is the most practised in sub-Saharan Africa. The most widespread breeding method is natural breeding combined with assisted breeding or hand-breeding using biotechnology. Cross-breeding between individuals of the genus Equus gives rise to hybrids (mulet/mule, bardot/bardote, zebra), the females of which are generally sterile. In Africa, the donkey plays important socio-economic roles (socio-cultural, transport of goods and people, food, drainage, harnessing, sources of income). Despite its importance, traditional farms are constantly faced with health problems and the animal suffers from a lack of well-being. This has a considerable impact on the development of livestock numbers. In addition, the demand for and export of donkey skins is exacerbating the problem. The donkey still plays an important role in both modern and traditional societies. However, the development of donkey breeding is confronted with problems of an ethical (welfare), health (ailments) and legislative (export and illegal trade) nature.