SOKOINE University of Agriculture (SUA) has initiated a research project to develop affordable and high-quality animal feeds aimed at increasing the income of livestock keepers. The project, funded by COSTECH, focuses on improving the productivity of indigenous cattle and agro-pastoralists by utilizing locally available ingredients for fattening feeds. Through training and formation of cattle fattening associations, the project also empowers pastoralists and agro-pastoralists. A successful experiment was conducted in Kongwa District, resulting in significant growth performance in bulls over a 90-day period. The project identified market opportunities and established farmer groups linked to financial institutions for access to loans. The Muungano Mtanana Group reported a substantial increase in profits due to the project, with weight gains from 200kg to 600kg in 90 days and profits reaching up to 2m/-. They requested the government’s support in building a permanent shed for fattening and connecting them with financial institutions to boost capital. Cattle fattening was highlighted as a profitable venture along the beef cattle value chain that should be promoted for adoption by livestock farmers. The project aims to reduce production costs, improve feed utilization, and avoid weight losses in animals during the dry season, ultimately benefiting both livestock keepers and the beef industry as a whole.
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Developing affordable and high-quality animal fattening feeds into a reality
