R&D and dissemination of GIFT were designed to address five immediate objectives: (i) to develop improved breeds of Nile tilapia; (ii) to build the capacity of national institutions in aquaculture genetics research; (iii) to disseminate GIFT; (iv) to carry out genetic, socioeconomic, and environmental evaluation of GIFT; and (v) to facilitate the development of national tilapia breeding programs. These immediate objectives were framed in the context of long-term strengthening of national research capacity for continued genetic improvement of GIFT and for implementing national fish breeding programs, and to promote environment-friendly fish farming. Unlike carnivorous fish, tilapia feed low in the food chain, as do the world’s domestic livestock