On-farm use of multi-purpose F1 crossbred cows in the mixed crop/livestock highland production systems of Ethiopia
2002
Tesfaye Kumsa (EARO, Addis Abeba (Ethiopia))
Improved agricultural productivity in Ethiopia is stifled by diminishing farm size resulting from a growing population, extensive use of traditional crop varieties and local breeds of cattle that have low genetic potential for production, sub-optimal inputs, high incidence of pests and diseases and poor cultural and husbandry practices. This study was undertaken to assess the effect of the use of multi-purpose crossbred cows on on-farm performance of the crossbreds, traditional manure production and management and household food security and asset accumulation in the central highlands of Ethiopia. Compoarison of household owning crossbred and local cows for food security (measured by daily calories and protein intake per adult equivalent) and asset accumulation situations (measured through local cattle, local animal herd, total livestock value, farm implements, buildings and household goods and total asset value) indicated that the former households exhibited significantly higher daily calories and protein consumption levels than the latter households. Mean asset accumulation trends between the two groups, however, did not differ significantly for the studied variables except for local cattle herd. In general, the use of crossbred cows had a positive effect on the traditional farmes, but at the current level of performance and milk prices, it is unlikely that sound economical benefit would be realized from the business. A strong extension, effective market outlet, and proper policy backing regarding provision of appropriate credit schemes and pricing incentives need to be in place if farmers are to exploit the full potential of the improved genotypes.
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This bibliographic record has been provided by Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research