Ethiopian Fogera Cattle Breeding Program Boosts Milk Production and Livelihoods

In a groundbreaking study, researchers have turned the spotlight on the Fogera cattle, a prized indigenous breed from Ethiopia, particularly around the picturesque Lake Tana in the Amhara region. This breed, known for its impressive milk production, is being put through its paces under an innovative open nucleus breeding scheme (ONBS), and the results are promising.

Assemu Tesfa, the lead author from the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at Bahir Dar University and the Andassa Livestock Research Center, has meticulously gathered both published and unpublished data to assess the performance of these cattle. “Our findings reveal that the nucleus Fogera cattle herd yields an average of 2.26 liters of milk per day,” Tesfa stated, emphasizing the potential for enhancing productivity through targeted breeding strategies. The top performers in this herd are truly remarkable, with the elite cows producing an average of 5.45 liters daily, and some even hitting a staggering maximum of 8 liters.

This research shines a light on the effective implementation of community-based breeding programs (CBBP), which have already shown a significant impact on the growth and productivity of the Fogera cattle. The birth and weaning weights of calves from these programs are encouraging, clocking in at 23.77 kg and 85.89 kg, respectively, while the average weaning age has been streamlined to just 8 months. “The CBBP is not just about breeding; it’s a lifeline for conserving this breed and boosting the livelihoods of local farmers,” Tesfa added, highlighting the scheme’s dual role in conservation and economic enhancement.

The implications of this research are profound for Ethiopia’s agricultural sector. With an overall calf mortality rate of only 3% in the nucleus herd, the potential for increased herd productivity and sustainability is clear. The study also delves into heritability estimates for crucial traits, revealing heritability values of 0.20 for milk yield and 0.27 for lactation length, which bodes well for future breeding initiatives aiming to elevate these traits.

In a country where agriculture is a cornerstone of the economy, the genetic improvement of indigenous breeds like Fogera cattle could translate to enhanced food security and economic stability for farming communities. By leveraging the CBBP, farmers can not only improve their herds but also contribute to the conservation of a breed that is integral to Ethiopia’s agricultural heritage.

This insightful research has been published in “Genetic Resources,” shedding light on the potential of indigenous cattle breeds in modern farming practices. As we look ahead, the findings suggest that with continued focus on genetic improvement and sustainable practices, Ethiopia can enhance its agricultural output while preserving its rich biodiversity. For more information, you can visit lead_author_affiliation.

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