Characterization of the swine sector in the cities of Pala and Moundou in the savanna zone of Southwestern Chad

Abstract

The study characterized the different segments of the swine sector in the cities of Pala and Moundou in the savanna zone of Chad. Cross-sectional and retrospective surveys, combined with direct observations, were applied to producers, processors and consumers in these cities. A total of 1318 pigs were counted, including 354 females of reproductive age. The average number of parturitions per year was 1.8 and the litter size 7.2 piglets. The annual numerical productivity per female was 11 piglets. Concerning the carcasses processed annually, more than half were processed in Moundou, the second-largest city in Chad. In Pala, consumers preferred grilled pork. In Moundou, preferences were divided between fried pork and baked or grilled pork. The results also showed that pig farming was aimed at improving family income through the sale of animals, and the production of self-consumed animals. Through the diversity of processed products, food processing and preparation activities, the actors in the sector provided the consumers with pork products at a relatively moderate cost. The major innovations observed in the sector were an improved pigsty, a private slaughterhouse, a breeding and pork marketing company, and a butchery’s shop and delicatessen for processing and distribution. Production, processing and marketing of pork have generated employment and improved the income of the different actors in the sector.