Supplementary feeding of cattle in Omusati region

Abstract

Abstract provided by author:

This report paper has presented the research findings on aspects regarding the role of cattle supplementary feeding in the Omusati region (communal areas). The numbers of farmers who supplement their cattle arc not significantly different among six constituencies in Omusati region. About 48.3 of the respondents (farmers) supplement their cattle and 51.7 do not. Therefore, this has revealed that cattle farmers in Omusati region have peer understanding concerning the role of livestock supplementary feeding

The major feeds used for supplementation are crop residues from pearl millet and sorghum; and also grass hays; tree fodders and salt lick blocks. However, the quality and quantity of supplements used are low. The majority of farmers usually supplement animals in spring (45); winter (35) and early summer (8.3) in response to feed deficiencies and sporadic drought spells. The main classes of cattle that receive top priority in supplementation are weak cattle (25); draught animals (23.3); sick cattle (18.3) and calves (13.3). The major factors influencing farmers' ability to supplement livestock are lack of awareness (18.3); lack of income 28.3); lack of supplement storage facilities (38.3); lack of feed market sources in the area (30.0); transformance (26.7); foggage conservations (13.3). All in all, cattle supplementary feeding is utmost important, henceforth livestock farmers are strongly advised to reinforce supplementary feeding in order to improve their living standards through improved livestock productive performance and survival.