Economics of Dairy Cow Feeding in Ngoma District, Rwanda
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.53819/81018102t5338Abstract
A pair of studies was conducted in the Zaza Sector of Rwanda's Ngoma District to evaluate both smallholder and large-scale dairy production. The research assessed economic viability, caloric output, and production efficiency in smallholder dairies, while evaluating various feeding options for economic feasibility. The smallholder study, conducted on individual farms, involved survey teams measuring milk output and documenting distances traveled for feed and water collection, supplemented by farmer interviews. Concurrently, the large-scale dairy evaluation examined feeding trials across multiple years and systems, consistently using the same 12 cows throughout. The research employed systematic sampling methods, with smallholders selected through linear systematic sampling and the 12 trial cows chosen randomly from those present throughout the study period. Smallholder operations predominantly used two feeding methods: cutting and carrying Napier grass or grazing on unimproved pasture and scrub. In contrast, the large-scale dairy tested six distinct diets for economic viability. Notably, smallholder operations showed minimal variation in milk production between dairy and local Ankole breeds, both averaging under 3 liters per lactating day, while the large dairy achieved yields exceeding 15 liters with certain diets, though with significant variations in production and profitability. The study revealed that smallholders' effective milk yield (365-day average) remained consistent at approximately 1.5 liters per day, regardless of feeding system or breed. Their primary monetary benefit came from calf sales rather than milk production. The caloric analysis showed modest benefits: grazing systems provided a net gain of 235.24 calories, while Napier cut-and-carry systems yielded only 62.63 calories, with many farmers experiencing caloric deficits. The large-scale operation demonstrated that 22-hour daily grazing on improved Brachiaria pasture outperformed five different confinement feeding options in both milk yield and economic returns, even when considering alternative land uses. However, this system's reduced manure collection capability presented a trade-off. The research concluded that while improved pasture systems might not suit smallholders, who could benefit more from confinement options, their primary challenges lie in market access and storage capabilities rather than production methods alone. The study recommends the development of hub dairy systems centered around operations like SACPP to serve as collection and processing points for smallholder milk production, coupled with a systematic supplementary feeding program and cooperative refrigeration facilities, while implementing a pilot program of maize bran supplementation to demonstrate the potential for increased yields through improved nutrition.
Keywords: Economics, Dairy, Cow Feeding, Ngoma District, Rwanda
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