The Production of Supplementary Feed for Livestock
In the Adamaoua Region, the dry season lasts for about six months, with the most difficult period occurring between February and April. To ensure livestock survival, herders must prepare well in advance.
Early Preparations and Herd Assessment
Starting in August, herders evaluate their herds, identifying and selling animals that may not withstand the dry season. These include old, weak, sick, aggressive, or stray-prone animals. The proceeds from these sales are reserved strictly for essential operations.
Health and Nutritional Management
A veterinarian provides necessary pharmaceuticals, and a technician assists in systematic deworming, beginning in October. Throughout the dry season, the herd receives essential vitamins and mineral salts to maintain health.
Stocking Up on Feed Supplies
From August, herders procure high-quality cottonseed meal and wheat or maize bran, storing them in dry, well-ventilated spaces safe from pests. Supplementary feeding begins in late December, focusing on weak animals, nursing cows, and young livestock.
Pasture Management for the Dry Season
Effective pasture planning starts during the rainy season (April-May). A designated forage-rich area is fenced off and maintained year-round. From December, this space, along with harvested fields, is opened for grazing. Keeping animals close minimizes weight loss, prevents theft, and reduces risks.
By implementing these strategies, herders in the Adamaoua Region ensure their livestock’s well-being and productivity throughout the harsh dry season.