Authors : Clarisse Umutoni, Adama Sow, Moctar Mouichi, Kalandi Miguiri, Richard Habimana and Germain Jerome Sawadogo
Abstract: Livestock are an important asset in Senegal as they help improve the nutritional status of farmers and contribute to the country’s economic growth. However, livestock productivity is greatly affected by climate change which affects the availability of animal feed resources. Another issue affecting livestock productivity at the farmer level is inadequate information and knowledge of the best feeding strategies. This study aimed to identify locally available animal feed resources and famers’ feeding practices to improve milk production in the regions of Kaolack and Kolda in Senegal. Data were collected through the use of a structured direct questionnaire. The study revealed that natural pasture and crop residues were the main livestock feed resources. All the farmers practiced supplementation during the dry season. However, the supplementation was conducted in a haphazard manner without any measurement consideration. The main problems facing farmers in accessing supplements were limited resources, non-availability of the supplement at the local market and the high price of the supplement.
Clarisse Umutoni, Adama Sow, Moctar Mouichi, Kalandi Miguiri, Richard Habimana and Germain Jerome Sawadogo, 2015. Characterization of Available Feed Resources and Farmers’ Feeding Practices to Improve Milk Production in Senegal. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 14: 330-339.