Using feeding strategies and technologies to meet feed shortages and improve feed nutrient availability in dry areas
31 May 2018, Addis Ababa – A number of feed and feed technology options are available to deal with emergency feed shortages in dryland areas of Ethiopia, according to an FAO analysis of emergency feeds and feeding strategies in lowlands of Oromia, SNNP and Somali Regional States. The analysis indicated that the use of feed technologies that reduce roughage feed bulk and improve the nutrient availability is highly relevant.
Lack of animal feed and adverse effects
In countries across the Horn of Africa and in many other parts of the world, the lack of feed inflicts major adverse effects on livestock during times of drought. This has been identified as a major challenge by development agencies, NGOs, researchers and extension workers alike, and one which must be addressed urgently.
The most recent droughts in 2016/17 in lowland areas of south and south eastern Ethiopia devastated the livelihoods of pastoral and agro-pastoral communities. Their livelihoods are almost entirely dependent on livestock for their food and income. Extremely limited pasture and water has led to poor body conditions, emaciation and weakened immune systems among livestock, resulting in very low milk production and marked reduction in the reproduction rate.
Terms of trade have undergone through substantial changes with livestock owners receiving just one quarter of the regular price for the sale of sheep and goats. They faced reduced milk production and limited income generation, a situation that has led to increased malnutrition levels and constrained food access.
Unavailability of feed in Ethiopia is primarily due to an inefficient feed sector, low levels of infrastructure, competition for the feed between livestock in the highlands and pastoral areas, and the reduced availability of rangelands for pasture due to an increase in human population, and as a result, conversion of pasture lands to croplands. Efficient use of available feed resources is key to efficient animal production and food security.
Prioritizing feeding strategies and technologies
Livestock feeding during and after a disaster can present livestock owners and producers with a host of challenges, particularly in the developing world.
Based on global experience, a number of feed and feed technology options are available to deal with emergency feed shortages. Of these options, the use of feed technologies that reduce roughage feed bulk and improve the nutrient availability is highly relevant.
The introduction and popularization of the sturdy feed processing machineries such as hydraulic presses, bailers and pellet making machines could address the huge logistical and cost associated challenges that are encountered while transporting bulky fibrous feeds to the areas frequently affected by drought. In areas that are affected by recurrent drought, it is vital to establish feed and fodder banks, which would make feed and fodder available in the affected areas within the shortest time possible.
The analysis also suggests the use of browse-enhancers to efficiently use the only in situ biomass available in the form of browses and trees in extreme drought conditions. This will enhance the nutrient availability from the browses. Likewise, use of multi-nutrient blocks containing urea, molasses, minerals and vitamins will also enhance nutrient availability from low quality pastures, generally available during initial stages of droughts.
Use of business approach in implementing feeding technologies was considered imperative for their sustained use.
The analysis stresses that technologies alone are not sufficient. Equally important are the institutional support and policy options, which are integral for large-scale application of technologies and generating high impact. A strong political will and leadership to drive the application of this holistic approach of amalgamating technical aspects, institutional building and policies will go a long way in addressing issues that affect pastoralists during emergency periods.
For further information, contatc:
Tamiru Legesse, national Communication Officer, FAO, 0911861293, [email protected]