Commercial Feed Value Chain in Central Ethiopia

Abstract

This study to explore the processed cattle feed value chain in the central part of the country, identifying main actors, mapping the chain, identifying leverage points, constraints and opportunities in cattle feed production and marketing, and identify determinants of farmers' choice of commercial feed market outlets. The study was conducted in Adama, Bisheftu, Welmera, Sululta, Sebeta Hawas, and Chacha districts, known for high milk production and supply to Addis Ababa and surrounding markets. The study employed a two-stage sampling technique to select dairy farmers, with 230 dairy farms interviewed, along with five feed manufacturers, sixteen traders, and other service providers and enabling bodies. The results showed significant differences in dairy production experience among producers, with average experience of 9.54, 13.81, and 16.18 years, respectively, and 16.18 years in the value chain. The average consumption rate of a single lactating crossbreed cow in the three categories with the feed type of brewery byproduct was 1.5 kg per cow per day, while 9.2kg of roughage was consumed per cow per day. The average dairy producer in the commercial sector feed maize and wheat bran of 2.4kg per cow per day. The study also found that the price of different feed types fluctuates in a year, with most feed types declining from November to March and inflating from April to October. Male-headed households positively related to the choice of wholesale feed market, suggesting that male-headed dairy farms opt to purchase feed from wholesalers.