Recent research into the production potential of indigenous cattle with special reference to the Sanga

A review based on recent research is presented on the production of Sanga (Nguni) cattle in South and South West Africa. The high calving rate of Sanga cattle (89,6%) compared to an average of 77,4% of four other breeds was the most outstanding feature. Nguni heifers reached puberty much earlier (349,9 days) than Bonsmara (419,0 days) and Drakensberger (407,2 days) breeds. Low calving losses were evident even with an early mating system (12 months). Indigenous cattle breeds are more tick resistant and may possibly be more efficient in production than exotic breeds. Evaluation of indigenous breeds in crossbreeding systems owing to their outstanding maternal performance is recommended.'n Oorsig gebaseer op die jongste navorsing oor produksie van Sanga(Nguni)-beeste in Suid- en Suidwes-Afrika word aangebied. Die hoë kalfpersentasie van 89,6% vir Sanga-beeste teenoor'n gemiddeld van 77,4% vir vier ander rasse was die mees uitstaande kenmerk. Nguni-verse het puberteit heelwat vroeër (349,9 dae) as Bonsmara- (419,0 dae) en Drakensbergerverse (407,2 dae) bereik. Lae kalfmortaliteit selfs met 'n vroeë paringstelsel (12 maande) is aangetoon. Inheemse beesrasse is meer bosluisweerstandbiedend en kan selfs meer doeltreffend in produksie as eksotiese beesrasse wees. Die evaluering van inheemse rasse in kruisteeltstelsels as gevolg van hulle besondere maternale prestasies word aanbeveel.Keywords: Calving rate, efficiency, indegenous cattle, Nguni, production, Sanga