The productivity of holstein-friesian dairy cattle in different farming systems of Kenya

Abstract

Information on performance of various breeds within different farming systems of Kenya would be useful in determining a breeding programme that would enable selection of appropriate animals for improved production. This study investigated the performance of Holstein-Friesian cows in small-scale farms (SSF), medium scale farms (MSF) and large-scale farms (LSF) and the factors which influenced performance in a range of milk production and fertility traits. Mean performance of animals for total lactation milk yield was 4540kg (LSF & MSF) and 2151kg (SSF). The age at first calving was lower on LSF and MSF (31.8 months)than on the SSF (45.0 months). Lactation lengths were lower on SSF (255 days) than on the MSF and LSF (301 days). Calving intervals in all systems were long, 404 days on MSF and LSF, and 429 days on SSF. Milk yield was highly influenced by seasonal effects, parity and lactation length, however lactation length, age at first calving and calving interval were only affected by seasonal effects on some of the LSF and MSF. Trends in performance over the years showed that between 1986 and 1996 there was little change in performance on SSF and MSF. On three LSF that altered the management of animals and introduced total-mixed-ration feeds, there was a marked increase in milk production. When comparing the performance of Holstein-Friesian cows on SSF with Ayrshire, Guernsey and Jersey, their level of performance was the lowest for total milk yield, calving interval and age at first calving. Further improvements and research on production systems are required in the country.

International Journal of Agricultural and Rural Development Vol. 5 2004: 145-155