Demography and zootechnical performance of traditional cattle farming in Northern Benin

Abstract

The study was conducted with 150 Fulani herders in the departments of Borgu and Alibori in Benin. It aimed to determine the zootechnical parameters of traditional cattle farms. The survey collected information on the characteristics of cattle herds. The results showed a high proportion of females (76%), an average herd size (66 animals) and the prevalence of the Borgu breed (86%). The herds also showed a low breeding performance, characterized by a high calf mortality rate (10%), and low reproductive parameters (64% calving and fertility rates). In a year, 0.57 calf was weaned on average by its dam. The low performance of cattle farms in coastal countries such as Benin is consistent with that of pastoral areas, which is complementary in terms of meat supply to West African markets.