Research results and facts of indigenous sheep production were reviewed with the aim of delivering relevant
information for the beneficiaries. The common production system used in Ethiopia was the extensive
type, which was characterized by small flock sizes and the flock being periodically devastated by diseases.
Some indigenous sheep groups of the country were characterized and their names were designated from
their commonest niche areas. There are large variations in phenotypic characteristics of indigenous sheep in
the country. Social cultures and beliefs of most of the community have been highly attached and attracted
by these morphological variations of indigenous sheep in Ethiopia. Consequently, those sheep endowed
with attractive coat-colors have always exceeded market values of their counterparts. There is also a genetic
variation between and within sheep populations of the country. Moreover, there is also a generation response
for selection. Although indigenous sheep producers have many opportunities, they have also many
constraints that affect productivity. It can be concluded that breeding and improved production programs
for the local sheep should incorporate the production objectives and trait preferences of the society. Presence
of diversified phenotypic appearances of local sheep shows the genetic potential for improvement.
Hence, this huge gene pool should be used for improvement through good management and traditional selection
together with genomic technology.