New research programme hopes to 'produce' a baby giraffe

SOUTH Africa might one day welcome its first giraffe calf born through advanced reproductive techniques, transforming conservation for the continent's tallest mammals.

- STAFF REPORTER

This follows the launch of the Giraffe Research Programme infrastructure at the Amanzi Private Game Reservein the Free State. The University of the Free State (UFS) new Giraffe Research Programme brings together conservationists, students, and scientists who aim to "give giraffes a chance to thrive in a changing world while safeguarding their genetic diversity". Made possible with support from Save the Giraffes, the Kroonstad Animal Hospital, and Absolute Genetics.

This programme is about "giving giraffes a chance to thrive in a changing world, safeguarding their genetic diversity, and, perhaps one day, welcoming the first giraffe calf born through advanced reproductive techniques" in South Africa, organisers said. The facility is designed to support advanced studies in giraffe physiology, anatomy, genetics, reproduction and welfare.