Journal Article
In Tanzania, milk production under smallholder farming systems is season sensitive,
fluctuations of feeds in both quantity and quality being the major driver. A dry
season decline in milk production of over 40% due to feed scarcity is a common
phenomenon. Adoption of improved feed production, conservation and utilization
technologies and practices in dairy farming communities is poor. This review work
was based on a key question which states “Why is adoption of improved dairy
nutrition technologies and practices in Tanzania still poor despite being promoted
for decades?”. We have shown that major opportunities for curbing dry season
animal feed shortage include on-farm optimization of production and use of high
yielding pasture varieties including napier grass (Pennisetum purperium Schumach.)
and leguminous fodder species. Crop residues in particular maize stover needs to
be optimized for effective dry season feeding. The major reasons for low adoption
of proven technologies include limited technical knowhow among smallholder
dairy farmers augmented by limited extension services and technological costs. For
enhancing sustainable uptake; we suggest promotion of on-farm research, publicprivate partnerships and dairy farmers’ cooperative associations. These are vital for
facilitating smooth access to information, investment capital, reliable inputs and
markets among the smallholder dairy farmers.