Characterization of cattle production systems in the Gurage area, Central Ethiopia

This study evaluates the cattle production systems and associated constraints in the Gurage area of Central Ethiopia. Four representative districts—Ezha, Gumer, Meskan, and Abeshige—were selected based on agroecological characteristics, farming practices, dairy cattle production potential, and their contributions to household livelihoods. A total of 120 households (30 per district) were randomly selected for interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Findings revealed that an Enset ventricosum-based mixed crop-livestock production system predominates in the region, showing a significant correlation (p < 0.01) between enset and cattle production. This integration plays a critical role in supporting household livelihoods. The primary objective of cattle rearing was milk production for household consumption, followed by the use of manure for fertilizer, draft power, and income generation. Pasture, crop residues, and enset leaves were the main feed sources. Average daily milk yield was 1.85 ± 0.54 L for indigenous cows and 7.22 ± 1.67 L for crossbreeds, with lactation lengths of 240.6 ± 1.58 and 269.1 ± 1.14 days, respectively. The overall mean reproductive performance of Indigenous cows/heifers for age at first services, age at first calving, and calving interval were 38.69 ± 7.46, 48.45 ± 7.02 months and 612.6 ± 3.41 days, respectively, while the corresponding value of reproductive traits for cross-bred cows/heifers reported were 25.35 ± 3.49, 34.93 ± 3.46 months and 486.6 ± 1.87 days, respectively. The primary constraints were feed shortages, low productivity of indigenous breeds, high disease prevalence, limited market access, and inadequate extension services. The study recommends context-specific technological interventions, such as improved breeds, feed management practices, and enhanced extension services, to boost cattle productivity in the area.