Abstract

In phase I, scientists in Burundi introduced on-farm a set of technologies involving dual purpose cattle, forage production, disease control, the use of farmyard manure, and improved management techniques. Seventy-three farmers participated in two study areas: Mahwa and Gisozi. Both the French and Belgian governments aided the Burundi government to extend the technologies on a wider scale. However, it is felt that more needs to be done in the socioeconomic aspects and in further refining the technologies. The objective of phase I,I is to improve the livestock farming systems of the small farmers in the low altitude region of Imbo and the high altitude areas. Researchers will study present breeding systems; introduce improved livestock production technologies and assess their acceptance; develop simple techniques for processing milk; train personnel; and promote dissemination and utilization of research results in a parallel project being developed with the Communications Division.

Post-Project Summary

There were several research achievements. The cross between Sawihal and Ankole cows produced more milk than the indigenous Ankole. Increased milk production reduced the importation of milk powder and increased farmers' incomes from the sale of milk. Soil fertility improved and crop production increased with manuring as shown by potato yield experiments.

Researchers identified three species of forage that were very productive. Tripsacum, the most productive among the three, yielded 64 tons of green forage per hectare, which was enough to feed 1 cow, 1 heifer, and 1 calf in a year. New technologies for growing and storing forage feed were developed and adopted, resulting in increased fodder production.

Project researchers attended various international workshops. A paper "Case Study on Livestock Research Programme; Smallholder Dairy in Burundi" was presented at the workshop held by the
International Livestock Centre for Africa in Zimbabwe in July 1992.

Recipient Institution(s)