Participatory Demonstration of Fattening Sheep Supplemented with Improved Forage Species in Dabafayd Kebelle, Adadle District, Shebelle Zone, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study was conducted in Adadle District, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia, to evaluate participatory sheep and goat fattening using improved forage-based supplementary feeding for yearlings. Twenty-seven model agro-pastoralists, each with ten yearlings, five Black Head Somali (BHS) and five Local Ethiopian Somali Goats (LESG), were selected based on their prior experience in small ruminant fattening and willingness to participate. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups for BHS and LESG finishing and provided with supplementary rations of locally available feed ingredients, including 1% common salt. Training on improved fattening practices and feeding management was delivered to agro-pastoralists, development agents, and livestock experts to enhance capacity and awareness. Supplementary feed was introduced gradually at 3 kg per head per day over fifteen days, and initial live body weights were recorded. Fortnightly weight measurements were conducted over 90 days, and data were analyzed using ANOVA and the GLM procedure of SAS (2002). Results showed significant (P < 0.05) increases in live body weights for both BHS and LESG yearlings. Economic analysis revealed high returns from selling the finished animals, indicating the profitability of the feeding strategies. The study concludes that these improved forage-based supplementary feeding technologies are effective and recommends their wider adoption to enhance small ruminant production, improve agro-pastoralist livelihoods, and strengthen food security in the region.