DILLA UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL

RESOURCES
DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL AND RANGE SCIENCE

ASSESMENT OF SMALL RUMINANT PRODUCTION SYSTEM,

CONSTRAINT AND OPPORTUNITIES IN DILLA ZURIA WOREDA

BY:

DAGNACHEW MEQUANINT

ID NO. RASC. 020/15

ADVISOR: SIMACHEW FETENE (MSc)

A SENIOR RESEARCH PROJECT SUBMITTED TO COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND

NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL AND RANGE SCIENCE IN
PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE DEGREE OF
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ANIMAL AND RANGE SCIENCE

JUNE, 2018
DILLA, ETHIOPIA
 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

First of all I would like to thanks to God all mightily who allowed me to complete this senior
research project. I take this opportunity to thank my advisor Simachew Fetene (MSc) for his
smooth and positive approach, immediate feedback and constructive comments. I would also like
to express my deepest thank to our families for their effective, financial and psychological
support throughout the study period. Finally, I would like to give great thanks to our department
for their stationary and other related support for us during writing this work.

LIST OF ABREVIATION

ADLI Agricultural Development Led Industrialization

AEZ Agro-Ecology zone
CSA Central Statistical Agency
DZWARDO DillaZuria Agriculture and Rural Development Office
EARO Ethiopian Agricultural Research Organization
ESGPIP Ethiopian Sheep and Goat Productivity Improved Program
HH House Hold
ILCA International Livestock Center for Africa
IPMS Improving Productivity and Marketing Success of Ethiopian farmers
MASL Meter Above Sea Level
PA Peasant Association
SSA Sub Saharan Africa
 LIST OF TABLES

TABLES PAGES

Age distribution respondent

15
sex distribution of study area
16
Education status of the study area
16
Responsibility of Family Husbandry in study area
17
purpose of keeping sheep and goat in study area
18
major source of income farmer in study area
18
production system of sheep and goat in study area
19
feed resource in study area
20
feeding system in study area
20
water resource in study area
21
Grazing management and herding practice in the study area.
22
housing system practiced in the study area
22
Constraints of sheep and goat production
23
Healthy management of small ruminant in study area
24
 Table of Contents
Contents Pages
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS..............................................................................................................................i
LIST OF ABREVIATION...........................................................................................................................III
TABLE....................................................................................................................................................IV
ABSTRACT...........................................................................................................................................viii
1. INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................................................1
1.1 Background and Justification...............................................................................................................1
1.2. Statement of the problem....................................................................................................................2
1.3 Scope and limitation of the study.........................................................................................................3
1.4 Significance of the study......................................................................................................................3
1.5 Objectives............................................................................................................................................3
1.5.1 General objectives.........................................................................................................................3
1.5.2 Specific objectives........................................................................................................................3
2. LITERATURE REVIEW..........................................................................................................................4
2.1 Small ruminant production systems in Ethiopia..................................................................................4
2.1.1 Highland sheep-barley system......................................................................................................4
2.1.2 Mixed crop-livestock system........................................................................................................4
2.1.3. Pastoral and agro-pastoral production systems............................................................................5
2.1.4. Urban and per-urban production system......................................................................................6
2.2. Feed Resources and Feeding Systems................................................................................................6
2.2.1. Feed resources for small ruminants.............................................................................................6
2.2.2. Seasonal availability of feeds and water......................................................................................6
2.2.3. Role of small ruminant in livelihoods of small holder farmers in Ethiopia................................7
2.3. Small ruminant production constraints...............................................................................................8
2.3.1. Feed shortage...............................................................................................................................8
2.3.2. Water shortage.............................................................................................................................8
2.3.3. Health constraints.........................................................................................................................9
2.3.4. Lack of improved technologies and inputs..................................................................................9
2.3.5. Lack of skilled man power.........................................................................................................10
2.3.6. Housing......................................................................................................................................10
2.3.7. Marketing constraints.................................................................................................................10
2.4.Small ruminant production opportunities..........................................................................................11
 2.4.1. Rising Demand for Small ruminant Meat..................................................................................11
2.4.2. Low Start-up Cost......................................................................................................................11
2.4.3 Less Labor Intensive...................................................................................................................12
2.4.4. Prolific Nature of Small ruminant..............................................................................................12
3. MATERIALS AND METHODS.............................................................................................................12
3.1. Description of the study area............................................................................................................12
3.2 Sample techniques.............................................................................................................................13
3.3 Method of data collection collected...................................................................................................13
3.4 Method of data analysis.....................................................................................................................14
4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION..............................................................................................................14
4.1. Characteristics of the respondents....................................................................................................14
4.1.1 Age of respondent.......................................................................................................................14
4.1.2 Sex distribution of respondent....................................................................................................15
4.1.3: Education status of respondent..................................................................................................15
4.1.4: Responsibility of family in sheep and goat husbandry..............................................................16
4.1.5: Purpose of keeping sheep and goat in the study area................................................................17
4.1.6: Major source of income of farmers in the study area................................................................17
4.2: production systems of sheep and goat practiced...............................................................................18
4.2.1: Feed resources in study area......................................................................................................19
4.2.2 Feeding system in the study area................................................................................................19
4.2.3 Water resource and watering practice in the study area.............................................................20
4.2.4 Grazing management and herding practices in study area..........................................................21
4.2.5 Housing of sheep and goat in the study area...............................................................................21
4.3. Constraints of sheep and goat production.........................................................................................22
4.3.1 Breeding management of sheep and goat...................................................................................23
4.3.2: Healthy management of sheep and goat....................................................................................23
5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS....................................................................................24
5.1. Conclusions.......................................................................................................................................24
5.2. Recommendations.............................................................................................................................25
6. REFERENCE.......................................................................................................................................26
7. APPENDIX..............................................................................................................................................29
ABSTRACT
The study was conducted in Dilla Zuria woreda which is one of the districts found in South
nation nationalities and peoples region in Gedio zone with the objectives of assessment of the
existing practice to ward sheep and goat production system its constrains and opportunities.
However, the known local breeds found in the study area have given little attention. The
assessment was undertaken by interviewing 30households from the three selected kebeles to
describe the existing factors affecting Sheep and goat production such as shortage of quality
feed, disease, poor quality water, high prices of concentrates and breeds which hinders
production in the area. It is due to this understanding that the present study was initiated with
purposively selected four kebeles and ten respondents (ten from each kebeles) were participated
in the study. Different surveys techniques like personal observation, semi structured
questionnaires and extracting from secondary source on existing practice towards sheep and
goat production. In this research paper data on sheep and goat production system and
constraints, evaluation of management system, assessment of feed resources, evaluation of
disease prevalence and effect of feeding system and economic benefit of different feeding system
were analyzed descriptive statistics.70% of respondent in the study area practice semi intensive,
13.33% of respondent were practice extensive and only 6.67% of respondents practice intensive
production system. The major feed resources for sheep and goat in the study area includenatural
pasture grazing, concentrated, crop residue and others like non-conventional feeds like left over
and Attala. They practiced of feeding including grazing on private land, free grazing and grazing
marginal land. The types of husbandry practice were traditional semi intensive production
system with minimum input and improved technologies, which characteristically low
productivity. Sheep and goat are largely produced in mixed crop livestock, specialized agro
pastoral system. Breed improvement should be considered multipurpose utility of local breed;
effort should be made characterized the breed.

KEY WORDS: - Constraints, Production System, Sheep and Goat

 1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background and Justification

Small ruminants are integral part of livestock keeping in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) that are
mainly kept for immediate cash sources, milk, meat, wool, manure, and saving or risk
distribution. Small ruminants also have various social and cultural functions that vary among
different cultures, socio-economies, agro-ecologies, and locations in tropical and sub tropical
Africa (Getahun, 2008). Ethiopia has a large livestock resource than most countries in Africa. It
is estimated that 84% of the 70 million people live in rural areas and depend on agriculture for
their livelihoods and he sector contributes 41.4% of the Gross Domestic Product of the country
(World Bank, 2006).

Small ruminant production is an important activity for smallholders, particularly for resource for
poor farmers in many parts of the country (Adana and Grima, 2008). Their broad feeding habits,
adaptation to unfavorable environmental conditions, low cost of maintenance, inherent suitability
for small scale production and their short reproductive cycle provide sheep and goats with
comparative advantage over large ruminant (Dagan, 2007). They provide their owners with a
vast range of products and services such as immediate cash income, meat, milk, skin, manure,
risk spreading/management and social functions(Adane and Girma, 2008).

According to CSA (2013), about 25.5 million sheep are estimated to be found in Ethiopia, out of
which about 73.57 percent are females, and about 26.43 percent are males. Correspondingly, the
number of goats reported in the country is estimated to be about 24.06 million. Out of these total
goats, 71.06 percent are females and about 28.94 percent are males. They are widely reared in a
crop-livestock and pastoralists farming systems and are distributed across different agro-
ecological zones of Ethiopia (Adane and Girma, 2008).

Unlike the large potential of small ruminants in the country their productivity is low. There are
various factors that contribute for low productivity: health constraints, feed shortage both in
quality and quantity, poor feeding and health management, market and institutional problems and
problem of credit facilities and others (Berhanu, 2006; Tsedeke, 2007; Getahun, 2008).

8
Recently, there has been a trend of continuous and rapid increase in global consumption,
production and trade of small ruminant products in developing countries. This trend has been
known by the term livestock revolution. The factors that led to this increased demand are:
population growth, urbanization, rise in income in growing urban centers of developing
countries, international influences (globalization and liberal international trade), and
technological changes in the production, communication, and the more mobile transport sectors,
trader is better informed on market prices which combined with excess supply place the trader in
a better position during price negotiation (Tsedeke, 2007).

1.2. Statement of the problem

Although various research and development activities have been carried out in the past, little
increase in productivity has been achieved. Therefore, innovative research and development
programs are required to increase the productivity of the flock and subsequently improve the
contribution of small ruminant sector to meet the demands of the human population, in the
different farming systems of the country.

However, such development outcomes, as a prerequisite, require a good understanding of the

different farming systems, prioritization of the problems and simultaneously addressing some of
the key constraints specific to a given locality and region. In addition, other issues which include
feeding, health control, general management, as well as cost and availability of credit and
marketing infrastructure need for further considerations (Workneh et al 2003, Baker and Gray
2004). This study will be conducted to characterize the current status of small ruminant
production systems and to identify major constraints in DillaWoreda of Gadio Zone.

The research question identified by this research was;

 What are the constraints of the small ruminant production around Dilla woreda?
 What are the opportunities of the small production around Dilla woreda?
 What is the production system practiced by farmer to produce small ruminant around
Dilla woreda?

9
 1.3 Scope and limitation of the study

The scope of the study was be delimited geographically to the assess challenges and
opportunities of small ruminant production Dilla, GedioZone. Despite the researcher’s effort to
maximize the fruitfulness of the research, the study was subject to some limitations that
emanated from its scope. It was having been important to conduct the research at regional level.
But the vastness of the region along with time and financial constraints, the research was
confined Dilla zuria wereda Gedio Zone of the region.

1.4 Significance of the study

The challenges and opportunities of small ruminant production system in the woreda were
identified and possible suggestions and recommendations were forward. The information
obtained in the area is paramount significance to evaluate the nationally proposes small ruminant
production system and major constraint in Ethiopia in general and the study area in particular.
This work was also typical in its contribution for academic purposes, researchers, universities
developmental agents and others who want to practice on adoption of small ruminant fattening in
the area. Moreover it gives site specific adoption characteristics of small scale farmers, who were
not well addressed in depth so far by extension services and research developments in the
country.

1.5 Objectives of the Study

1.5.1 General objectives

 The general objectives wasbe to assess the small ruminant production system, constraints
and opportunities in selected kebeles Dilla zuria woreda.

1.5.2 Specific objectives

 To identify and describe small ruminant production system in the study area.
 To generate important information on sheep and goat different production systems in the
study area.
 To identify constraints and opportunities for small ruminant production Dilla zuria
woreda.

10
 2. LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Small ruminant production systems in Ethiopia

The production system in which sheep and goats are kept is differing markedly. Differences exist
not only in production system but also in relative importance and potential for increased sheep
production and goat production systems are classified using criteria that included degree of
integration with crop production and contribution to livelihood, level of input and intensity of
production, agro-ecology, length of growing period and relation to land and type of commodity
to be produced. The three major production systems are high land sheep barley systems, mixed
crop-livestock system and pastoral and agro pastoral production system. The minor production
systems are ranching, urban and per urban production systems (Solomon and Girma, 2008).

2.1.1 Highland sheep-barley system

This system is found in the highlands 3000 MASL where the major crops grown are barely and
pulses such as fiber beans, Lents, etc. Temperature is the main factor determining productivity in
the highland sheep-barley production system. Cropping intensity in these areas is generally low.
Sheep are the dominant livestock species. The main feed resource-based includes wasteland
grazing, stubble and sometimes straw. Sheep flock sizes ranges from 30 to several hundred head.
Sheep are mainly reared for meat, skin and course wool production for the cottage industry of
central highlands are subsidiary products. Large sheep production ranches could be established
where mainly meat or dual-purpose breeds could be maintained either by individual farmers or
cooperatives. These highland areas are generally unsuitable for sustainable crop production
(ESGPIP, 2008).

2.1.2 Mixed crop-livestock system

Both sheep and goats are raised in mixed crop-livestock system. These systems are based on
cropping associated with livestock husbandry. This system is generally found in areas where the
altitude ranges between 1500 and.l3000 MASL The area has adequate rainfall and moderate
temperature and is thus suitable for grain production. The integration of crops and livestock is
high in most areas. The integration is lower in the perennial crop-livestock system (coffee

11
growing areas) in southern Ethiopia where animals are of minor importance. In the grain-based
mixed production system, livestock in general and small ruminant in particular play an important
role in food security and are the main cash source for the purchase of agricultural inputs. They
also used as a savings and insurance mechanism. The system of sheep and goat production for
the most part is a low input/low output system except in some cases of concentrate
supplementation and use of Anthelmintics for fattening sheep and goats. There is a need to
intensity production because of high population density in these areas. Potential for intensive
small ruminant production through finishing activities and stratification of production exists
(Solomon et al., 2010).

2.1.3. Pastoral and agro-pastoral production systems

2.1.3.1. Pastoral production systems

In general, pastoral systems are associated with agro-ecological zones (AEZ) that are too dry to
sustain crop production. These are characterized by little or no crop agriculture and high mobility
in search of grazing and water. Under Ethiopian conditions, pastoral systems of production are
found at altitudes below 1500 MASL. And where the annual precipitation is less than 500 mm.
Pastoral systems are characterized by livestock are maintained as a principal activity. Fifty
percent of household revenue comes from livestock or more than twenty percent of household's
food energy is derived directly from livestock or livestock related activities (ESGPIP, 2008).

2.1.3.2. Agro-pastoral production system

This system is characterized by less integration with crop production as compared to the crop-
livestock production systems. Producers under this system have a permanent residence and their
movement is limited in terms of both distance and duration. The system is characterized by a
high degree of dependence on milk and meat production. Some crop agriculture is practiced
around the permanent homestead. This is also a low input/low output system. The system is
usually practiced below 1500 MASL but with higher rainfall to support short season crops
compared to the pastoral system (Girma, 2008).

12
 2.1.4. Urban and per-urban production system

This system involves the production of sheep and goats within and at periphery of city. The
resources are usually household wastes, by-product and road side grazing particularly in the peri-
urban system. In most cases the types of sheep and goats available from this system are meant
for local consumption, being well finished, fatty animal demanded by local Ethiopia market
(ESGPIP, 2008).

2.2. Feed Resources and Feeding Systems

2.2.1. Feed resources for small ruminants

The major feed resources for sheep and goats include grazing on communal natural pastures,
shrubs, small trees, private pastures, crop stubble, fallow grazing, road side grazing, crop
residues, grains, improved forages and non-conventional feeds including household food
leftover, weeds from crop fields, fillers from dense crop fields and traditional brewers grain.
Importance of the different feed resource varies depending on the production system; farmers'
livestock management practice and the production environment e.g. land availability and climate
(Endashaw, 2007).

In most production systems, agro-ecologies and geographic regions, extensive free grazing in
communal grazing land and stubble grazing are most common practice of feeding sheep and
goats. A relatively more intensive controlled feeding is practiced in the perennial crop livestock
systems. The form of controlled feeding include themed grazing an private lands and marginal
lands and carry feeding of grass tillers, filers and weeds(Tsedeke, 2007).

2.2.2. Seasonal availability of feeds and water

The natural pasture is most important source of feed during the wet season in all systems. Its
availability is insignificant during the dry season except in the wet highlands. Crop residues and
crop stubble grazing are important source of feed during dry season. Water sources for livestock
include rivers, streams, ponds, deep well pipe water and rain water harvest as well as springs.

13
Rivers are major water sources for livestock. The relative importance of water source depends on
the season and agro-ecology. Livestock watering frequency varies with season and agro-ecology
(Tesfaye, 2009).

2.2.3. Role of small ruminant in livelihoods of small holder farmers in Ethiopia

In terms of Tropical Ruminant Livestock Unit, sheep and goats represent only 13% of the
estimated total Ethiopian ruminant livestock population but contribute highly significant product.
Sheep and goats provide about 12% of the value of livestock products consumed and 48% of the
cash income generated at farm level, 46% of the value of national meat production, 25% of the
domestic meat consumption with production surplus, 58% of the value of hide and skin
production, 40% of fresh skins and hides production and 92% of the value of semi-processed
skins and hides (ILCA, 1990).

Farmers use sheep and goats as savings that generate cash when the environment is harsh, e.g.
during drought years and are sold to raise money to replace large ruminants lost during droughts
(spreading risk). Sheep and goats also meet social and cultural needs (e.g. payment of dowry,
celebrations and gifts to family members) (Ibrahim, 1998). Sheep and goats are considered as
investment and insurance to provide income to meet seasonal purchases of food, improved seed,
fertilizer and medicine during seasons of crop failure and drastic drop of crop prices for rural
households. Given these advantages sheep and goats are found in many smallholder settings as
an integral component of the farming system enhancing the sustainability of the system (Ibrahim,
1998).

There is an increase in demand of Ethiopian small ruminants both for local and export markets.
Recent studies showed that smallholder farmers mainly keep small ruminant as a source of
income which may indicate higher demand for small ruminants. Although there has been
fluctuating demand of Ethiopian small ruminants in importing countries due to disease, sanitary
and physio-sanitary reasons in current days past few years there was progressive increase in
demand was reported in the past few years (Azage et al., 2006).

14
 2.3. Small ruminant production constraints

2.3.1. Feed shortage

According to Dhabaet al. (2012), the dry season extends from 3- 6 months during which chronic
feed shortage occurs (mid January to mid April). Feed shortage is one of the limiting factors of
livestock production in the most parts of the country because of seasonal feed availability and
poor quality of feeds.

According to Belete (2009) feed shortage in both seasons (dry and wet) limits
productivity of small ruminants and it was further worsened due to the absence of
awareness and practice of feed conservation techniques. Moreover, forage development has
been given less attention in most part of Ethiopia.

According to Yenesewet al. (2013) there was feed shortage problem both during the dry and the
rainy seasons. Arid and semi-arid areas where there are few rainy months with limited rainfall of
erratic nature feed production for small ruminant is inadequate however. However, goats thrive
due to their browsing nature.

Feed shortage is one of the limiting factors for increasing production and productivity of small
ruminant in most of the agro-ecological zones in Ethiopia. Reasons for shortage of feed vary
depending on the agro-ecology and production system. The reasons include yields of grazing
land, drought and increase in human population. Moreover, feed shortage is expressed in terms
of seasonality of feed availability quality of the available feed and feeding practice (Tsedeke,
2007).

2.3.2. Water shortage

Water shortage and drought were occurs due to relatively smaller rainfall and has shorter rainy
seasons in most of goat producing areas of the country. Water shortage is also reported as
limiting factor in most lowland areas to a limited extent in mid altitudes. In eastern, north-eastern
and south-eastern part of the country there is critical shortage of water; however, small ruminants
are somehow adapted to these agro-ecologies through their physiological adaptation mechanisms
(Belete, 2009).

15
Water is a determining factor for all activities of animals. Water problem in amount and quality
cause different problems like consumption, drying of track low milk products and related
products and low metabolic activities with lower body condition limitation of water intake
reduce animal performance quicker and more dramatically than any other nutrient deficiency.
Water constitutes approximately 60 to 70 percent of an animal's live weight and drinking water is
more important than consuming feed. Domesticated animals can live about sixty days without
food but only about seven days without water. Livestock should give all the water they can drink,
enough water in their body prevents dehydration. Water requirements are influenced by
physiological and environment conditions (Tsedeke, 2007).

2.3.3. Health constraints

Another serious constraint for small ruminant production in Ethiopia has been the high
prevalence of disease and parasites. This causes high mortality amongst kids and lambs,
diminishing the benefits of their high reproductive performance. Tsetse flies, with the highest
infestation in the humid and sub humid zones, are also major problems in these areas. Further
losses are caused by abortions and stillbirths. Other diseases that have limited the productivity of
small ruminants in Ethiopia include pneumonia, contagious carping Pleuropneumonia, Ecthyma,
gaseous Lymphadenitis and Brucellosis. Individually, these diseases might not constitute serious
problems, but combinations of them or their occurrence under marginal conditions could result in
serious losses (Markos, 2006; Tsedeke, 2007).

2.3.4. Lack of improved technologies and inputs

Availability of improved technologies and inputs are critical factors to transform traditional
production system to market oriented profitable enterprise. Improved livestock technologies and
inputs are improved feeds, forage seed, feeding practices including fattening packages.
Technology and commercialization stimulus agricultural growth improve employment
opportunities and expand food supply (Ahemedet al., 2003).

2.3.5. Lack of skilled man power

Lack of improvement in the productivity of sheep and goat is often attributed to the lack of
skilled labor. Most of the labor is provided by the family. The person responsible for the day to

16
the day care varies widely depending on cultural factors, the number of animals, the production
system (extensive, semi-intensive, and intensive) other reasons. Young children usually take care
of smaller back yard herds. The role of women in the case of sheep and goat varies considerably
depending on the country, region, ethnic groups and related factors. In many place women are
not only take care of the animals but also Owen them and market them (Azageet al., 2002).

2.3.6. Housing

Site selection and orientation of the house from the direction of wind play is a vital role for house
construction not only for sheep and goats, but also for large animals. There are a number of
criteria's which must fulfill in animal house. These are height of house, good ventilation, space
distribution for each animal, roof design and material used for the house and orientation from
wind direction. If animal house poorly constructed, it can affect production and the well-being of
the animals (Workneh, 2002). The type of house varies with the production system. Most of
farmers raise sheep and goats for the sake of being having them. Housing can range from very
simple structures made by roof and partial walls to complex structures fitted with all thematic
feeders and waters. Animals may kept either in an area with in family house or in a separate
animals shade (Zelalem, 2007).

2.3.7. Marketing constraints

In Ethiopia, the marketing of livestock and livestock products is under developed. The major
problems are the traditional management system which is not market oriented, underdeveloped
marketing systems and poor infrastructure, poor financial facility, and presence of cross-border
trade. The farmer lack sufficient information of market to sell their production, remote area there
is no road service, traditional management, skins of sheep and goats mostly used for make house
goods (Wilson, 1998).

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 2.4. Small Ruminant Production Opportunities

2.4.1. Rising Demand for Small Ruminant Meat

Currently, the demand for small ruminant meat outpaces the supply in the United States.
Producers simply cannot keep up as demand is currently double the domestic production
(Coffey, 2006). This is thought to be triggered by the influx of new immigrants into the United
States in recent years. These ethnic groups include Hispanics, Muslim,Asians,Africans, and
Caribbean Islanders, who prefer goat meat in their diets, and usually buy the mostwhenever they
can find it. Members of these ethnic groups also use goat and sheep meat for religious festival,
weddings, and birthday celebrations. in the future, the ethnic demand for goat and sheep meat is
expected to increase as ethnic populations increase, and their purchasing power improves.
Another Potential group of consumers of goat and sheep products is the health conscious group
of the mainstream population. The current and expected increase in demand for goat and sheep
meat and the lack of sufficient supply have created opportunities for limited- resource farmers to
fill the void and enhance their business prospects by integrating meat goat and sheep production
into their farm enterprises (Luginbuhl, 2000).

2.4.2. Low Start-up Cost

Low start-up cost is another factor that an opportunity for the development of small ruminant
production system by a small-scale farmer with limited resources. Start-up cost for a meat small
ruminant producer is considerably lower than that of cattle producers. First, five does can
normally be acquired for the price of one cow. Second, goats and sheep required less land than
cattle, as few goat and sheep can be sustained by the same amount of area needed to sustain one
cow. Third, small ruminant can do well on low quality forage diets and thrive on harsh terrain,
which means they do not need expensive structures like barns to thrive. However, the animals do
need some sort of shelter, which can be constructed from inexpensive materials. No special or
unique equipment is needed for small ruminant as existing equipment for young calves could be
converted for small ruminants use (luginbuhl, 2000).

18
 2.4.3 Less Labor Intensive

Small ruminant production is less labor intensive when compared to the production of larger
animals. Due to the size of goats and sheens, women and children in the family can easily handle
the animals. Most small ruminant are good tempered and the chances of children and women
getting injured are limited. Therefore, investing in a small ruminant production system can create
employment opportunities for members of the entire family (Capote, 2002).

2.4.4. Prolific Nature of Small ruminant

Although small ruminant are seasonal breeders a doe(mature female goat ) and ewe(mature
female sheep) can be bred and successfully give birth three times every two years.Moreover,
goats and sheens are more reproductive cycles than catties within the same pried of time. In a
period of two years, it is possible for doe and ewe to give birth to six kids because of its high
twinning rate, whereas a cow is most likely to produce two calves for same period. This quick
turn over rate is an advantage to the producer in terms of cash flow and the building up of h is
Ababa. The woreda surrounds Dilla town, the capital city of Gedeo zone. The woreda is located
at 360 km from Addis Ababa. The total area of the woreda is about 13,965 hectares of which
13,442 hectare are cultivated. The area receives an annual maximum, medium and minimum
rainfall of 1, 400, 1,150 & 900 mm respectively. The mean maximum and minimum daily
temperatures are 25.40 and 13.40 degrees respectively. The altitude ranges from 1,350 to
2,600m.The area is located approximately between 38 degrees and 40 degrees Longitudes, with
an altitude ranging from 1,350 to 2,600 m (CSA, 2007).

According to DZWARD office report, the total population of the woreda is estimated to be
97,327 of which 48,835 and 48,492 are males and females, respectively. The woreda comprises
about 27,130 household heads of which 22,796 are male household heads and 4,334 are female
household heads. The majority of the people of the study woreda are from the Gedeo ethnic
group (CSA, 2007). The woreda has 17 Peasant Associations (PAs) and each PA has one
agriculture development center. There are 106 agricultural development agents in the woreda and
about 25,506 farmers have access to extension services (DZWARD, 2012).

19
The major agricultural practice is mixed farming systems. The area is relatively described by low
level of livestock rearing practices mainly due to shortage of grazing land. According to the
woreda agriculture and rural development office, in 2009/10 production year, there was a total of
86,306 livestock population in the woreda. The major animal species kept were about, 34.97%
heads of cattle, 33.67% heads of chickens and 22.99% heads of sheep and goats, and 8.37%
heads of equines. In addition to this, 5507 beehives are also found in the woreda.

1. MATERIALS AND METHODS

1.1. Descriptions of the Study Area

This study was conducted in Dilla Zuria woreda of Gedeo zone of South Nations, Nationalities
and Peoples Regional State, SNNPRS. The woreda is 90 Kms away from the regional city
Hawassa which is 275 km away from Addis Ababa. The woreda surrounds Dilla town, the
capital city of Gedeo zone. The woreda is located at 360 km from Addis Ababa. The total area of
the woreda is about 13,965 hectares of which 13,442 hectares are cultivated. Although the soil
type varies from place to place, black soils are the common ones. The area receives an annual
maximum, medium and minimum rainfall of 1400, 1150 & 900 mm, respectively. The mean
maximum and minimum daily temperatures are 25.40 and 13.40 degrees, respectively. The
altitude ranges from 1,350 to 2,600 m. The area is located approximately between 38 degrees and
40 degrees E longitude, with an altitude ranging from 1,350 to 2,600 m (DZWARD Office,
2010; CSA, 2010).

The total population of the woreda is estimated to be 97,327 of which 48,835 and 48,492 are
males and females, respectively. The woreda comprises about 27,130 household heads of which
22,796 are male household heads and 4,334 are female household heads. The majority of the
people of the study woreda are from the Gedeo ethnic group (CSA, 2010; DZWARD Office).
The woreda has 19 Peasant Associations (PAs) and each PA has one agriculture development
center. There are 106 agricultural development agents in the woreda and about 25,506 farmers
have access to extension services (DZWARD Office, 2010).

The major agricultural practice is mixed farming systems. The area is relatively described by low
level of livestock rearing practices mainly due to shortage of grazing land. According to the

20
woreda agriculture and rural development office, in 2010 production year, there was a total of
86,306 livestock population in the woreda. The major animal species kept were about, 34.97%
heads of cattle, 33.67% heads of chickens and 22.99% heads of sheep and goats, and 8.37%heads
of equines. In addition to this, 5507 beehives are also found in the woreda (Dilla Zuria woreda
agriculture and rural development office, 2010).

3.2 Sample techniques

Dilla woreda contain 17kebeles from these 3 kebeles was selected namely Chchu, Andida and
Gola was selected purposively by their potential of small ruminant production. From thesefrom
these 10 houses hold from each kebeles (total 30 HH)was selected by random sampling
techniques.

3.3 Method of data collection collected

A both primary and secondary source was used. The primary data was collected via semi-
structured questionnaire, observations and interviewing with key informants. A pre-testing a
semi-structure question was used before the actual questions is setting. Thus output from the pre-
test questions was used to reframe and implement to improve the questionnaire. The
questionnaire was designed to capture information such as house-hold demographics including
sex and age of the respondent; production practices including species kept, identification of
constraints to production and possible solutions , management practices to include; feeding,
watering , breeding and health provision and opportunities and marketing. Secondary data was
collected from different article, journal, and literature material and from Around Dilla Woreda
Agricultural office documents or unpublished.

3.4 Data Analysis

The collected data was summarized and analyzed by using descriptive statistics such as
frequencies, mean and percentage and then the results was presented in table.

21
 4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1. Characteristics of the Respondents

4.1.1 Age of Respondent

The analysis of the result in table 1 shows that the age of small ruminant farmers in Chchu,
Andida and Gola kebeles the dominant age group were 31-40 (4o%), 41-60 (40%) and 31-40 (4o
%), respectively. The result in the study area district shows that out of the total households
interviewed, the dominant age group of the respondents were within ranges from 31-40 years of
age (36.67%) followed by 41-50 year of age (30%), <30 years of age group (20%) and 51-60
years age (13.33%). The finding also shows that most of the small ruminant keepers were in their
active and productive age group. The reason is obvious; the age of a farmer is a very important
factor that can be used to determine the type of agricultural activities engaged by a farmer. For
instance, in family labour supply younger farmers spend much time and tend to engage in labour
intensive farming activities than older farmers (Tijani et. al., 2010). The current finding was in
agreement with the findings of CSA (2008) of Ethiopia which states that, all age groups who are
above 10 years old in the rural areas are involved in agricultural activities. On this finding, since
majority of age groups found between 31-40 years old, they are better for agricultural activities
including livestock production.

Table 1: Age Distribution of Respondents

Age of Number of Respondents in the Study kebeles % Total Total

Respondents Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
<30 3 30 2 20 1 10 6 20
31-40 4 40 3 30 4 40 11 36.67
41-50 2 20 4 40 3 30 9 30
51-60 1 10 1 10 2 20 4 13.33
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100

22
 4.1.2 Sex Distribution of Respondent

The Analysis of the finding shows in table 2 that the dominant sex distribution of respondents in
the study area practiced small ruminant production were Male in Golla kebele (90%), Andida
(80%) and Chchu(70%). Among out of total household (HH) interviewed (N=30 HH), the
majorities of the respondents at about 80% were male and 20% were females. This result
generated from this study was less than the report of Dhabaet al.2008.

Sex Number of Respondents in the Study Kebeles (%) Total Total

Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
Male 7 70 8 80 9 90 24 80
Female 3 30 2 20 1 10 6 20
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100
Table 2: sex distribution of study area

4.1.3 Education Status of Respondent

Education is an important entry point for empowerment of communities and an instrument to

sustain development. High level of farmer households in this context may have significant
importance in identifying and determine the type of development extension services. The role of
education is obviously affecting household income. The result of educational status of the
respondents practiced small ruminant shows in table 3 that the education status of small ruminant
farmers in Andida, Gola and Chchu kebeles the dominant households were had not education
status (50%), (40%) and (30%), respectively. And also the result indicates that those kebeles
were no Higher education to product (keep) small ruminant. The result of this study area district
showed that, the majority of respondents (36.67%) were illiterate (neither read nor write),
(13.33%) were primary school, the same percentage of secondary and high school were (13.34%)

23
and read and write (26.66%) this might be the cause for low production in the study area as they
lack knowledge on the use of improved technologies

Number of Respondents in the Study Kebeles (%) Total Total

Educational status Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
Illiterate 3 30 5 50 4 40 11 36.67
Read and write 3 30 3 30 2 20 8 26.66
Primary school 1 10 2 20 1 10 4 13.33
Secondary school 2 20 1 10 2 20 4 13.34
High school 1 10 1 10 1 10 3 10
Higher education - - - - - - -
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100

Table 3: Education status of the study area

4.1.4: Responsibility of Family in Sheep and Goat Husbandry

In the study area family labor was the main source of livestock farm and used of hired labor for
flock management was not common .Thus the amount of household labor availability and the
manner of labor allocation were critical to effectively carry out for operation and influence
livestock management techniques and adoption of improved technologies. The result of the
finding in table 4 shows that the responsibilities of family of small ruminant farmers in kebele
level to identify the dominant responsibility were male for feed. Sheep and goat production were
done mainly by women for cleaning flock barn (36.67%), by children for flock herding (23.33%)
and by men for feeding (33.33%) and also men accounted the major responsibility in the family.
The entire respondents answered that men have contribution for cleaning of flock barn (6.67%).
This might be due to lack of awareness and they think that cleaning flock the barn is the
responsibility of women and children.

24
 Table 4: Responsibility of Family Husbandry
Responsibility of Women Men Children
family No of respondents % No of respondents % No of respondents %

Feeding 6 20 10 33.33 7 23.33

Flock herding 4 13.34 7 23.33 11 36.67
Watering flock 5 16.67 7 23.33 4 13.33
Clean flock barn 11 36.67 2 6.67 3 10
Care for young 4 13.32 4 13.34 5 16.67
flock
Total 30 100 30 100 30 100

4.1.5 Purpose of Keeping Sheep and Goat

The result of the analysis of the finding in table 5 shows that the majorities of the respondent in
the study area the purpose of keeping sheep and goat for farmers were income generation in
Gola, Andida and Chchu kebeles about (40%), (30%) and (30%), respectively. And the result
also shows that low purpose of keeping sheep and goat those kebeles were skin (10%) because of
no give attention skin quality.The major objectives of sheep and goat rearing in Dilla zuria
woreda were presented in Table 5 below, according to the respondents, sheep and goat kept for
to fulfill multiple functions amongst which for income generation (30%), house hold
consumption (26.6%), manure (13.33%), saving (13.34%) and for skin production (10%). In the
study district the main purpose of keeping small ruminant production was income generation
next to manure, the respondents said that the manure was used for fertilizer to garden vegetation
such as inset and coffee production and also plays a substantial role in the household food
security in the study area. It meets urgent financial need, dietary requirement and for social and
cultural function.

25
Table5: Purpose of Keeping Sheep and Goat

purpose of keeping Number of Respondents in the Study Kebeles (%) Total Total
Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
Income generation 3 30 3 30 4 40 10 30
Household 2 20 3 30 3 30 8 26.66
consumption
Manure 1 10 2 20 1 10 4 13.33
Saving 2 20 1 10 1 10 4 13.34
Skin 1 10 1 10 1 10 3 10
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100

4.1.6 Major Source of Income of Farmers

Analysis of the finding in table 6 shows that the major source of income of farmers in the study
area in Gola, Chuchu and Andida kebeles were coffee production (40%), (30%) and (30%),
respectively. And also this result indicated that among the interviewed farmers selling of
commodity for cash was depend up on the amount of money needed to cover their expenses. In
the study district most of respondents said that the coffee production was the first income
generation about (36.67%), the second income generation was cattle rearing about (26.66%), the
third income generation sheep and goat about (20%) and selling of crop were (16.66%). Some
respondents said that the small ruminant production was not fit with garden vegetation especially
goat.

26
Table 6: major source of income farmer in study area
Major source of Number of Respondents in the Study Kebeles (%) Total Total
income Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
Cattle rearing 2 20 3 30 3 30 8 26.67
Selling of crop 2 20 2 20 1 10 5 16.66
Sheep and goat rearing 2 20 2 20 2 20 6 20
Coffee production 4 40 3 30 4 40 11 36.67
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100

4.2 Production Systems of Sheep and Goat Practiced

As presented in table 7 below , most of the respondents in the study area responded that the
type of sheep and goat production system practiced in the study area include semi intensive
(70%), extensive(20%) and intensive systems (10%) but farmers practiced intensive system were
very low. This finding agrees with that of Hassan (2000) but is in contrast to that of Odeyinkset
al. (2008) who found that 62% of respondents in this study practice extensive system as against
29% who kept their sheep and goat under semi intensive management. This variation may be due
to labor shortage and grazing land problems. Most urban city practiced intensive production
system (cut and carry system). The rest of the two systems is in rural area.

Table 7: Production System of Sheep and Goat in Study Area

Production system Number of Respondents in the Study Kebeles (%) Total Total
Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
Extensive 3 30 2 20 1 10 6 20
Semi- Intensive 7 70 8 80 6 60 21 70
Intensive - -- - - 3 30 3 10
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100

27
 4.2.1 Feed Resources for Small Ruminant

The major feed resources in the study area were natural pasture, crop residues, non conventional
feed including household left over, weed from crop field, concentrate and traditional brewers
processing locally known as Attalla. As shown table below, Chchu kebele mainly used (70%) of
natural pasture and (30%) of crop residue and Andida kebele mainly used natural pasture (50%),
crop residues (10%), (10%) of non-conventional feed and (10%) concentrate and in Golla kebele
mainly used ( 40%) of natural pasture, (20%) of concentrated feed. In general, the average
percentage of respondents were used (53.33%) of natural pasture, (26.67%) crop residue and
(10%) same percentage of concentrate and non –conventional. This finding agrees with that of
Tsedeke (2007) and Belete (2009) who reported that feed resources for sheep and goat is mainly
natural pasture. Natural pasture used for during wet season while crop residue used for during
dry season, both of the used in rural area. Urban area mainly used concentrate feed.

Table 8: Feed Resource for Small Ruminant

feed resource Number of Respondents in the Study Kebeles (%) Total Total
Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
Natural pasture 7 70 5 50 4 40 16 53.33
Crop residue 3 30 3 30 2 20 8 26.66
Concentrate feed - - 1 10 2 20 3 10
Non-conventional feed - - 1 10 2 20 3 10
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100

4.2.2 Feeding System in the Study Area

The most common practices of feeding sheep and goat in the study area were tethering on private
land, free grazing land and use of marginal land. As shown in table 9 below, most of the
interviewed households in the study district were used tethering (43.34%) followed by marginal
land (33.34%) and free grazing (23.32%). This result is in the agreement with the practice of
feeding which reported in different parts of country Belete (2009), Tsedeke (2007) and Tesfaye

28
(2008). The reason why owner of sheep and goat used tethering were for reducing theft, save
labor, avoid crop and vegetation damage by sheep and goats

Table 9: feeding system in study area Number of respondent

feeding system Number of Respondents in the Study kebeles % Total Total
Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
Tethering on private land 5 50 5 50 3 30 13 43.34
Free grazing 2 20 3 30 2 20 7 23.32
Marginal land 3 30 2 20 5 50 10 33.34
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100

4.2.3 Water Resource and Watering Practice

The main source of water in the study areas were river (36.66%), pipe water (33.34 %), rain
water (30%). The majority of the households in mixed crop-livestock obtained water from river
and pipe water, with regard to urban producers the majority of the household were obtained
water from pip water. During winter season most of respondent were used river water. In urban
area used pip water. Although relatively some interviewed small ruminant producer perceived
that they provide good quality water to their small ruminant. Frequency of watering small
ruminant varies from one production system to another, which is affected by different factors,
among which season of year, accessibility, performance and type of predominant feed and
feeding system were some to be motioned. Regarding on watering frequency, the most of
respondents said that sheep and goat drink water only three times a week, during summer season
drink lees amount water because the condition was cold. During winter season especially sheep
drink two times of a day due to heat effect at the period .similar study has been reported by
(Tsedeke, 2007)

Table 10: Water Resource in Study Area

29
 feed resource Number of Respondents in the Study Kebeles (%) Total Total
Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
River 3 30 5 50 3 30 11 36.66
pipe water 3 30 2 20 5 50 10 33.34
rain water 4 40 3 30 2 20 9 30
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100

4.2.4 Grazing Management and Herding Practices

The analysis of the result in the study area indicates that from the total interviewed households
30% of them were herded sheep and goat separately, 20% were herded sheep and goat together
and 50% were kept small ruminant with other large ruminants while grazing. In the study area,
the tendency of keeping small ruminants with large ruminants were high; this could be because
of the scarcity of grazing land, thereby, most of respondents were grazing the flock with large
ruminant.

Grazing is the common feed source for small ruminants in the study area. A marked seasonal
variation in quantities and quality of feed supply is acute problem during dry; ILRI (2000).
Availability of feeds depends on the season of the year when lands are covered with crops.
During extending from planting of major crops until their harvest makes major challenges to
availability of sheep and goat feeds. Major sheep and goat feed from natural pasture, crop
residue, browse, bushes, weed and fodder plants are identified in this study area .Also major
sheep and goat feed source in Ethiopia (Markos, 2000; Tsige Yohannes, 2000; Adugna et al;
2000; Berhanu et al., 2002).

Grazing Number of Respondents in the Study Kebeles (%) Total Total

Chchu Andida Golla

30
 management No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
Grazing separately 2 20 5 50 3 30 10 30
Sheep with goat 2 20 2 20 3 30 7 23.33
Together with other 6 60 3 30 4 40 13 43.34
livestock
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100
Table 11: Grazing Management and Herding Practice

4.2.5 Housing of Sheep and Goat in the Study Area

Type of housing Number of Respondents in the Study Kebeles (%) Total Total
Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
House attached to family 7 70 5 50 6 60 18 60
house
In family house Separate - - 1 10 - - 1 3.34
barn
house separate new born 3 30 4 40 4 40 11 36.66
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100
The housing systems of in the study areas were used different types of housing for their sheep
and goat to protect them from extreme weather condition, theft, and predator and to protect from
injures. As indicate that table 12 below, (60%) the majority of producer reported family that
they keep their sheep and goat in the family attached house followed by house separate barn shed
house (3.34%) and family separate house new born (36.66%). Similar to this finding, Belete and
Girma (2008) reported that separated barn type of house was used for sheep and goat, but
Tsedeke (2007) reported that at Alba in SNNPRS, about 89% house hold keep their sheep and
goat in family house. This shows that in different areas house hold use different types of housing
system and this difference might be due to the difference in the weather condition.
Table12: Housing System Practiced in the Study Area

31
 4.3. Constraints of Sheep and Goat Production

Shortage of quality feed, disease outbreak poor quality of water, high price of concentrate feed,
market problem, predator, lack of improved technologies and breed were among the major
problems in the study area. As indicated in table 13 below, most of the respondents in the study
area had feed problem (22.33%) which was followed by predator (6.67%), presence of disease
problem (13.34%), breed (16.66%), and high price of concentrate feed (13.33%) poor quality of
water (5%) and marketing problem (13.34%). The grazing land shortage, less accessibility of
agro industrial by-product such as molasses and brewers by product, lack of clean water are
found as the problem of sheep and goat production in the study area. From the table below the
major problem was feed shortage. The result obtained through farm monitoring survey also
revealed the presence of high mortality. The relatively high disease and parasite infestation of
goats and sheep were probably due to the presence of communal and fallow-grazing lands and
movement of animals is also common from place to place in these areas (Tessema et al 2003).

Table 13: Constraints of Sheep and Goat Production

Constraint Number of Respondents in the Study Kebeles (%) Total Total

Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
Shortage of quality 2 20 3 30 2 20 7 23.33
feed
Disease 2 20 1 10 1 10 4 13.33
Poor quality water 1 10 1 10 2 10 4 13.34
High price of 2 20 1 10 1 10 4 13.33
concentration
Marketing problem 1 10 1 10 2 20 4 13.34
Predator 1 10 1 10 - - 2 6.67
Breed 1 10 2 20 2 20 5 16.66
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100

32
 4.3.1 Breeding Management of Sheep and Goat

In the study area all respondents were not deliberately practiced of making selective breeding to
avoid risk of the inbreeding depression in the flocks. Ram and bucks run with flock throughout
the year. It is more concern that almost all breeding rams and bucks originated from their
respective flocks might imply that the relationship of animals with in a flock and even within a
village is narrow and inbreeding was widespread and increasing. This result is in agreement with
Berhanu (1998) and Jaitneet al (2001). There was often no selective mating policy in the study
area. Thus mating and conception could occur all year round .This is in agreement to previous
observations reported for sheep and goat flocks (Rawlings et al., 1992; Berhanu, 1998). The
breeding flock ram and bucks were commonly run with all year round and breeding in the study
area is in controlled. As sheep and goat herder does not use control breeding, the reproduction of
their sheep and goat are primarily regulated by seasonal feed availability.

4.3.2 Healthy Management of Sheep and Goat

Health management Number of Respondents in the Study Kebeles (%) Total Total
Chchu Andida Golla No. of % of
No % No %. No % HH HH
Vaccination 4 40 3 30 4 40 11 36.66
Slaughter immediately 1 10 1 10 - - 2 6.64

Take veterinary 5 50 6 60 4 40 15 50
Treat with local 1 10 - - 2 20 3 10
Total 10 100 10 100 10 100 30 100
The majority of respondents in study area were kept health of small ruminant that was (10%) of
treat with local medication, (50%) of take veterinary service, (36.66%) of vaccination and
slaughter immediately. The respondents were not kept their small ruminant carefully like
sanitation, feeding, housing system, veterinary service and watering. So, the transmission of
disease from each other was high. This result was similar with (Getachaw and Gashaw, 2012)
who revealed that an animal health problem the contribution to the low productivity performance
includes absence of proper disease control measures, inadequate veterinary service.

Table 14: Healthy management of small ruminant

33
 5. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1. Conclusions

The study was conducted in Dilla Zuria woreda with the assessment sheep and goat production
system and its constraints. Three kebeles (Andida, Gola and chchu were purposively selected
based on the potential of sheep and goat production. According to the assessment results which
had been conclude as follows. All of the respondents are they keeping the local sheep and goat
breed for the purpose of meat production, manure and income generation. There is the
distribution of responsibilities and activities of sheep and goat production practices in house hold
that means feeding and watering for children, cleaning and house care left for women but men
supervise all the routine management activities. The housing systems also in some of the
respondents are they separate with the family house and in family house. However, most of the
respondents were they attached main of house practiced in the study area. The major income
source of farmers in the study area include cattle rearing, coffee production, sheep and goat
production, selling crops are the major one.

The majority of respondents in the study area practices of production system include semi
intensive. There are reasons why respondent practice semi intensive production system in study
area due to lack of labor and grazing land problem. The most feed resource available in the study
area includes natural pasture agro industrial by product, crop residue. The total available feed
resource is dominated by natural pastures and the level of agro industrial by product and crop
residues are followed the natural pasture. The farmers in the study area have no knowledge of
improved or cultivated forages. So the total feed available in the study area is not more than
maintenance requirement.

All of the respondents in the study area are they keeping the local sheep and goat for the
production system. As result most of the respondent in the study area practiced production
system is semi intensive. Moreover, disease, lack of appropriate housing, skilled manpower and
shortage of grazing lands are the major constraints of sheep and goat production system in study
area.

34
 5.2. Recommendations
 The local sheep and goat production should be supplemented with sufficient amount of
feed and improved grazing system.

 Veterinary service should be improved at all part of the area and farmers should care for
their sheep and goat

 Breed improvement should be considered the multipurpose utility of local breed ; effort
should be made to characterize the breed.

 The available natural pasture, crop residue should be improved by using different
method.

 All seasons of grazing time the producers should be properly supervised their small
ruminants in order to reduce predator.

 Properly oriented market center should be established.

35
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 7. APPENDIX

ASSESMENT OF SMALL RUMINANT PRODUCTION SYSTEM, CONSTRAINT

OPPORTUNITIES IN DILLA WOREDA, GADIO ZONE

QUESTINNAIRE

Date of interview ______________Name of respondent_________________________

Kebeles name________________________

SECTION ONE: GENERAL INFORMATION

a. information about respondent and household head

Sex Age Education Religion

level

Respondent

b. family size and composition

Sex Age group in year and number Total

<30 31-40 41-60 >60

Male

Female

Total

1.3. What are the responsibilities of your family on small ruminant husbandry?

Responsibilities Women Man Children

Feeding

Flock herding

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 Watering flock

Clean flock barn

Care for young flock

o .purpose of keeping small ruminant

Purpose

Meat Milk Ceremonies Wealth Manure Skin Saving Others

status

Mark

Rank

SECTION TWO:

 feed and water resources seasonal available.

1 What are the major basal feed source available for sheep and goats and their availability?

Wet season Rank Dry season Rank

Feed resource

2 do you graze your sheep and goats

a. yes b. no

3. How sheep and goat graze? a=sheep alone b=goat alone c/ shep+goatd/together with
livestock

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4. How you practiced grazing your sheep and goat in the dry seasons?

a/ free grazing b/tethered grazing c/ cut and carry

5. How you practice grazing your sheep and goat in the wet seasons

a/ free grazing b/ tethered grazing c/ cut and carry

6 Do you usually provide your sheep and goat with supplementary feeds in addition to grazing?

A/ yes b/ No

7. When do you usually offer your sheep and goats with supplements? a/ dry seasons b wet
seasons c/ both

8. If you not provide with supplements why? a/ Not accessibility b/expensive

9. Do you conserve feed? a/ yes b/ No

10. If yes in what form? a/ hay b silage c/ others

11. if not why ?a /Not skilled and experience b/ shortage of grass/folder c/labor shortage

12. Is there feed shortage for your sheep and goat a/ yes b/No

13 If yes when? a/ dry season b/ wet season

1 .4.What are the common water sources of sheep and goat in this area?

NO Sources of water Estimated Rainy season Wet season

distance(1hr=5kms)
1 River
2 Pond
3 Rain water
4 Water harvest
5 Deep well
6 Pipe

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 7 Any other
Sources
15. Is there any water shortage or problem to sheep and goats? a/ Yes b/No

16. If yes, when? a/ Dry season b/Wet season3=both

B Sheep and goat health Management

1. What would you do when your sheep and goat sick? a/ treat with ethno veterinary practice
b=sales immediately c/slaughters immediately d/takes to veterinary e/treat with local

2. From where you usually obtain veterinary service a/ DA offices b/ NGOs c/ private
institution d/ open market

3. Are you accessible to veterinary service in your locality? a/yes b/ No

5. How did you obtain service from these institutions? a/ free of charge b/payment
c/credit d/ other specify

6. Did your sheep and goat get vaccine in recent times? a / yes b/ No

7. If yes how? a/ after report of disease cases b/ after certain animal died c/ before out breaks?

8. Has there been any death of your sheep and goats over the last 12 months? a/ yes b/ no

9. if you yes what is the major cause’s deaths. Rank

a/ diseases and parasite infection b / nutritional deficiency and toxicity .c/ predator

C/ HOUSING SYSTESM OF SHEEP AND GOAT

1/ Where you confine sheep and goats? a/ main house .b/ Adjoin house c /grazing area

d/ separate constructed house

2/ how you confine house for sheep and goat? a/ sheep alone b/ goat alone c/ sheep and goats
alone d/ together all other animals.

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3/ why you provide sheep and goats with shelter ?a/ to protect from sun, rain and frost .

b/ provide convenient climatic condition. c/ protect from predator d/ to provide supplements

5/ If no, why? a/ cultural taboo b/ religious taboo c/ not common in the area

SECTION THREE

Constraint and prospective of sheep and goats production and marketing

1.What are major constraint of production of sheep and goat in the area? (Rank) a/disease
and parasite b/feed and grazing land shortage c/ water shortage d/ labor shortage
e/drought f/ predators g/marketing problems h/breeding problem

i/ other specify g/ high price of concentrate feed

SECTION FOUR

Opportunity for goat and sheep production

I. Goat and Sheep have market opportunities?

A/ Yes B/ No
II. What are importance of small ruminant to you and your family?

A/ ……………………………………………………………………..

B/……………………………………………………………………..

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