Research into parasite-resistant mutton sheep gets a R1.4-million boost from the Africa-Japan Collaborative Research grant

Much-needed research into disease-resistant genes in mutton sheep to curb the spread and intensity of parasites threatening livestock production received a major cash and expertise injection thanks to the Africa-Japan Collaborative Research grant (AJ-CORE).

Senior Lecturer in Animal Sciences and National Research Foundation-rated Researcher Dr Takalani Mpofu is the principal investigator in a study focusing on disease-resistant genes in mutton sheep. The AJ_CORE grant supports a limited number of high-impact, collaborative projects between African and Japanese universities to address climate-related and environmental challenges.

The research – led by Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Senior Lecturer in Animal Sciences and National Research Foundation-rated Researcher Dr Takalani Mpofu – focuses on identifying specific genetic features, known as molecular markers, in mutton sheep that enable them to naturally resist parasites such as ticks, tick-borne diseases, and gastrointestinal worms.

Titled “Molecular Markers for Resistance to Ticks, Tick-Borne Diseases and Gastrointestinal Parasites in Sheep under Climate Change”, the research received a R1.4-million award for South African activities over three years. It will be boosted by a team of researchers from Japan’s Hokkaido University and Kenyan researchers from Kenyatta University, Chuka University, and Maseno University, who have also been allocated funds for their research activities in their respective countries. The grant is administered by the NRF in South Africa.

“In simple terms, the study is trying to identify the ‘strong genes’ in sheep so that farmers can breed animals that are naturally healthier and more resistant to disease, thereby improving their ability to survive under changing climate conditions,” explained Dr Mpofu, the Principal Investigator leading the six-member TUT team comprising experts in animal sciences, animal production science, and animal breeding and genetics.

Dr Mpofu said the partnership is designed as a complementary collaboration where each country contributes its specific strengths. “The South African team provides expertise in animal breeding, genetics, and production systems. Kenya contributes strong capabilities in veterinary diagnostics and field-based parasite detection,” he said.

“Japan brings advanced expertise in genomics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. These roles are not duplicated but integrated, allowing the project to address the complex interaction between host genetics, parasites, and climate change holistically,” he added.

The project will develop innovative, environmentally sustainable solutions to improve mutton sheep production in South Africa, Kenya, and Japan by enabling farmers to breed mutton sheep that are naturally resilient to parasites. The project will reduce reliance on chemical treatments and lower environmental pollution. It will also support climate-resilient agriculture, improve food security, and enhance livelihoods, particularly in vulnerable rural communities. Additionally, the project will promote eco-friendly livestock systems by minimising drug use, slowing the development of resistance, and protecting ecosystems.

Key outputs of the research include scientific publications in high-impact journals, farmer training workshops, and the development of future genetic tools for sustainable breeding, alongside training postgraduate students and strengthening international collaboration.

The research milestones contribute not only to scientific advancement but also to national and continental priorities by generating knowledge, supporting innovation, and improving agricultural sustainability. The milestones align with South Africa’s National Development Plan 2030 goals of innovation-driven growth, the African Union’s Agenda 2063’s vision for science and technology-driven development, and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals’ emphasis on sustainable agriculture and climate resilience.

Parasitic infections are a major challenge in sheep production, resulting in reduced productivity, increased mortality, and higher treatment costs. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these challenges by increasing parasite prevalence and altering disease dynamics. The research will provide a sustainable solution through genetic improvement, reducing dependence on chemical treatments that are becoming less effective due to resistance.

Executive Dean in the Faculty of Science, Prof Ntebogeng Mokgalaka-Fleischmann said the grant reflects TUT’s commitment to producing cutting-edge research and problem-solving innovation.

“Through international collaboration and scientific excellence, Dr Takalani Mpofu and his team are developing sustainable solutions that will strengthen agricultural resilience, food security and environmental sustainability,” said Prof Mokgalaka-Fleischmann.

“We congratulate Dr Mpofu and his research team on securing this highly competitive grant and look forward to the meaningful contribution this work will make to scientific knowledge, postgraduate training, innovation and the advancement of sustainable agriculture across Africa and beyond," she added. – Corporate Affairs and Marketing