Research for improving cereal-based livestock systems in semiarid sub-saharan Africa
1995
Powell, J.M. | Rivera, S.F. | Williams, T.O. (ICRISAT Sahelian Center, B.P. 12404, Niamey (Niger). International Livestock Center for Africa, Semi-arid Program)
Pearl millet and sorghum are the principal cereal crops, and cattle, sheep, and goat are the main ruminant livestock in semiarid sub-Saharan Africa (SASSA). Traditional practices of shifting cultivation and transhumance and previous specializations in crop and livestock production are gradually being replaced by more sedentary forms of mixed crop-livestock farming. This evolution due to climatic change and demographic pressures has increased the stress on natural resources. Innovative crop, livestock, and soil management strategies are required to assure long-term gains in agricultural productivity. An initial priority for agricultural research in SASSA is to identify the predominant production systems and target the key research issues likely to have maximum positive impact on crop and livestock production. Interdisciplinary research is required to understand the key interactions among plants, animals, and soils, and farmers' perceptions and priorities. Poor animal nutrition is the main cause of low ruminant productivity. Improved feeding strategies require an increase in feed productivity and quality and the development of supplementation techniques to overcome nutritional constraints. An increased use of fertilizers and the introduction of forage legumes into cereal-based livestock systems can have positive impacts on soil productivity and animal nutrition. Further gains in animal productivity can be obtained through the genetic improvement of crop residues and improved grazing systems. Selective harvesting of cereal stover for feed and returning other portions of plants to fields may reduce the competition between animals and soil conservation for crop residues. The corralling of animals on fields to return both manure and urine to soil can enhance the role of livestock in intensively and extensively managed mixed farming systems
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