Assessment of sheep fattening and marketing systems in Duna Woreda, Hadiya zone, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

The study was conducted in Duna Woreda, Hadiya Zone, with the objective of assessing sheep fattening and marketing systems practiced in the area. Four Kebeles were selected based on agro-ecology and population densities of sheep. From each Kebele, 20 households were selected randomly. A total of 80 households were interviewed by using semi-structured pre-tested questionnaire. Farmers in the surveyed area practiced feeding of fattening sheep in feedlot system (60%) and grazing and stall feeding (40%). The high proportion of producers provided crop residues and grazing of natural grasses. The result showed 52.5%, 12.5% and 35 % were using river water, well water and both well and river water respectively. Farmers and rural assemblers from different local markets supply animals of varying sex, age and weight to Ansho and Cafemera secondary markets. The second and most important route was through medium and large traders who collect animals from Duna woreda/Ansho areas and supply through large traders to terminal domestic markets in Hosanna and Addis Ababa. Natural pasture and house leftover were the major feed resources during the rainy season whereas natural pasture, crop residue, improved forage and house leftover were the feed resources in the dry season. Male sheep were given higher choice than females during selection. Matured sheep which are within the age range of 1-2 years had got higher choice in selection over the young ones (68.75 %). The price of fattening sheep depends on body condition, castration, age, color and ranging from 2000-4500 ETB. Exposed challenges were lack of awareness, lack of marketing channels and distance from marketing place. Both market supply and demand of sheep were typically seasonal and reaches peak during the holidays. Agricultural development agents should give attention in creating awareness for farmers by providing adequate skill and monitoring.