This chapter examines genetic improvement initiatives for dairy animals across Africa, covering species such as dairy cattle, small ruminants, dromedaries, and equids. It highlights the programs’ role in boosting productivity, economic viability, and nutritional security, while addressing challenges like regional disparities, weak policy frameworks, and competition from imports. Regional projects are explored, including North Africa’s focus on sustainable dairy systems driven by demographic and economic factors. Algeria’s $3.5 billion initiative aims to meet half the nation’s milk demand through technological advances and job creation, while Tunisia’s MILKQUA project prioritizes milk quality and reduced antibiotic use. In East Africa, smallholder farmers are central to milk production, with initiatives like Dairy Genetics East Africa and Africa Dairy Genetic Gains (ADGG) employing genomic tools to enhance breeds and optimize performance despite limited pedigree records. West Africa, particularly Senegal, tackles dairy demand by introducing high-yielding exotic breeds supported by artificial insemination campaigns. The chapter emphasizes aligning genetic improvement programs with national agricultural strategies for sustainable success. Key challenges such as breeding objectives, genotype selection, performance recording systems, and market access are discussed. It also highlights the potential of genomic selection and the need to mitigate environmental impacts. The chapter advocates for integrated approaches combining traditional and modern technologies, supported by strong policies and collaboration, to achieve sustainable genetic improvement and advance food security and economic development in Africa.