Characterisation of Smallholder Multiple Livestock Species Production Systems in Parts of Lake Victoria Crescent of Central Uganda

Abstract

A cross-sectional study of 150 purposively selected multiple livestock species farmers was conducted in Central Uganda aimed at distinguishing between mixed and integrated livestock systems. Performance and operational-based challenges misconstrued to cause incorrect comparison between the two systems were considered. Ten multiple-livestock species system with five ruminant species-based and five monogastric species-based combinations were categorised. Poultry, pig, fish, goats and sheep kept in both the 3 and 4-species combinations were considered. Over 80% of the families are male dominated, smallholder and occupying > 1.0 Ha of land. Exotic and crossbred breeds were adopted away from less productive and noncommercial local species. Mixed monogastric-fish systems with monogastric species dominated (P < 0.05) the choices in the ten categories. Over five year experience in integrated livestock techniques transformed 30% of the farmers into integrated monogastric-ruminant-fish systems. Over reliance on conventional and expensive feeds was highly associated (X 2 = 25.93) with increased production expenses which significantly (P < 0.001) reduce production. Cattle and small ruminants are majorly reared on small scale zero-grazing system of less than 5.0 stock per household. Fish gained prominence with 37% of the farmers operating at medium scale of 500-1000 stock per farm. Poultry species are mainly kept on deep litter and cage systems which elevated 14.7% of the farmers to large scale with (>1000) stock per farm. Stalls dominate pig management systems with 15% of the farmers upgraded to commercial level with (>50) stock per farm. Ineffective livestock policies contribute to inefficient performance of 55% of livestock farmers. In conclusion, mixed livestock systems should be upgraded to integrated livestock systems with input resource synergy for improved production and sustainability.