International Journal of Animal Science, Husbandry and Livestock Production (IJASHLP) (2141-5191), Vol. 10(3), pp. 498-509, August, 2024. © Advanced Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
Influence of improved and traditional stables on animal health and productions in the provinces of Ruyigi and Rutana in the Eastern part of Burundi
Nishemezwe G1, Ntirandekura J.B1, Nyandwi D1, Habonimana S.1, Farina L.2, Santucci S2, and Gentile A.3
1Department of Animal Health and Productions, Faculty of Agronomy and Bioengineering, University of Burundi, B.P. 2940 , Bujumbura-Burundi.
2 IBO ITALIA - ODV-ETS, Via Boschetto 1, 44124 Ferrara (Italy)
3Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences. University of Bologna. Via Tolara di Sopra 50, 40064 Ozzano Emilia – Bologna (Italy)
*Corresponding Author’s E-mail: [email protected]
Accepted 20th August, 2024.
Abstract
Burundi is a country where more than 90% of the population lives of agriculture. Livestock farming was extensive and contributed around 4.6% of GDP. In addition, the multiplication of the number of agricultural operations on an already limited space causes the reduction of community pastures, thus making cattle animal husbandry difficult. The objective of this study is to evaluate the contribution of improved stables in the zero grazing system established since 2018. Therefore, a survey was conducted in Rutana and Ruyigi provinces of Burundi using a questionnaire containing firm and open questions and by physical observation of livestock grouped in extensive and zero grazing systems. The results showed that there was a trend of improvement in milk production, body condition, animal welfare, biosecurity, and the fight against parasitic and infectious diseases in zero grazing compared to extensive system. Policy makers should put in place legislation framework to allow the effective implementation of this new livestock system in different agro-ecological zones of Burundi.
Keywords: Animal production – biosecurity – animal health –- zero grazing- Burundi