Traditional small ruminants rearing system in Senegal : animal management and husbandry practices by livestock owners in the Kaymor rural community (Sine-Aloum, Senegal)

Abstract

The authors present their results from the program concerning “pathology and productivity of small ruminant raised in their traditional environment” (ISRA, CIRAD-EMVT). On the basis of these results, small-ruminant rearing practices and strategies in the Kaymor rural community are analyzed. The methodology is based on field surveys and statistical analyses of micro-economic data gathered during follow-up of 100 concession herds over a 5year period. The survey oriented the data processing method which, in turn, raised new questions and triggered new enquiries among the livestock owners. The authors then describe small-ruminant rearing conditions in their natural environment (Sudano-Sahelian zone), the human background (Wolof and Toucouleur ethnic groups) and the production systems. They present the rearing and management practices: small ruminants range freely during the dry season and are led by a paid shepherd during the rainy season. Feed supplement levels are low and reproduction is poorly managed. The various types of agreements for entrusting (“confiage”) animals to others are examined. The role of small-ruminant rearing (slaughter for feasts, easily realizable investment in the event of need) is illustrated by the results of the survey.