The work of the MilkIT project to enhance dairy-based livelihoods in India and Tanzania through feed innovation and value chain development approaches was recently reported in IFAD’s 2016 annual report. Continue reading
Author Archives: Peter Ballantyne (ILRI)
Female dairy farmers laid the foundation for a village-based ryegrass seed enterprise in Danyore valley, Pakistan
Rye grasses are widely grown cool season grasses that are better suited and have greater agronomic potential in the northern mountainous regions of Pakistan. Since 2015, the AIP-ILRI project has been working to improve dairy production through higher biomass production of improved fodder varieties, especially in mountainous areas like Gilgit. Continue reading
Early introduction of calf starter to enhance growth rate of cattle in Pakistan
The various livestock feed companies in Pakistan are suggesting that livestock farmers must introduce calf starter to their calves at the age of three months, at a recommended dose of 10% of their body weight. The AIP-ILRI project has been working to improve livestock production and create awareness among livestock farmers that they must fatten their calves to get higher economic returns. Continue reading
Potential of cactus as drought feed for small ruminants in Pakistan
Under the AIP-Livestock project (ILRI-ICARDA), cactus was introduced to farmers in the dry areas of Chakwal and its adaptation was tested and its value as animal feed was evaluated. Continue reading
Use of grain legumes residues as livestock feed in the smallholder mixed crop-livestock production systems in Ethiopia
Livestock productivity in Ethiopia is much lower than the existing potential due shortages of quality feed in the country. However, adopting grain legumes can help boost annual production with concomitant increase in grain legumes residues. Continue reading
Feeding less food-competing feedstuffs to livestock and global food system sustainability
Increasing efficiency in livestock production and reducing the share of animal products in human consumption are two strategies to curb the adverse environmental impacts of the livestock sector. Continue reading
Nutritional value and seasonal availability of feed ingredients for pigs in Uganda
In this study, the nutritional values and seasonal availability of 43 local feed ingredients for pigs in Uganda, were estimated based on nutrient analyses and literature values, information needed to develop low-cost balanced rations for pigs on smallholder farms. Continue reading
Selecting forages for the Tropics with the SoFT tool
Tropical Forages: an Interactive Selection Tool enables users to identify forage species suitable for specific climates, soils, and farming systems such as cut and carry, agroforestry, erosion control, beef, and dairy. Users can also view images of the plants and their use, search a database of scientific references with abstracts, and consult a glossary of botanical and management terms. Continue reading
Least-cost rations for sheep fattening: A manual for livestock farmers and extension workers in the Sahel
This manual provides simple and tested practical guidelines for livestock farmers and extension workers on least cost ration based on locally available feed resources for sheep fattening. It contains details on feeding and management options that can be applied by small-scale producers. Other key issues addressed in the manual include housing, purchase of feed, general hygiene and the handling of animals. Continue reading
Forage seed systems in Kenya – status update
A new working paper from CIAT report focuses on the current state of forage seed systems in Kenya under both formal and informal sectors and seeks to provide useful information for farmers and development actors looking or likely to engage in tropical forage seeds, especially in Kenya. Continue reading