Review on Compound Animal Feed Processing in Ethiopia: Condition, Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

Feed both in terms of quantity and quality is a major bottleneck for livestock production in Ethiopia. The use of feed from commercial sources is, however, very limited due to shortage of feed supply and inefficient marketing system. Feed prices are increasing from time to time and mainly exacerbated by the increasing trend in export market of agro-industrial by-products and double taxation in mixed rations. The supply of agro-industrial by-products that constitute more than half of the ingredients used in mixed rations has not been growing commensurate with the growth in demand. As a result, the price of ingredients and manufactured feeds has been increasing at a very fast rate. The problems facing the compound feed industry are multifaceted and thus require commensurate solution by the different actors. Provision of incentives, speeding up enforcement of feed legislation, accreditation of laboratories to increase chemical analysis, awards and recognition for consistent compliance to quality standards, rules and regulations, avoidance of multiple taxation, assure adequate feed supplies and reliable quality of raw materials and finished feeds at affordable prices. Therefore, assessing the conditions, challenges and opportunities of compound feed manufacturing is of paramount importance for effective and efficient utilization of the resources to enhance the productivity of the livestock sector in the country.