The low crude protein content in MNMs compared to SBM is comparable with other conventional dietary protein sources. Thus, the MNMs could be used as protein and energy feed ingredients. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

This experiment evaluated varying levels of Amarula (Sclerocarya birrea A. Rich) nut cake (ANC) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics in pigs. Thirty Large White × Landrace (LW × LR) pigs were strati ed by weight (average live weight of 20 ± 5 kg) and randomly allocated to the ve experimental diets that contained 0 (control), 50, 100, 150 and 200 g ANC/kg DM. Each pig served as a replicate unit, housed individually. Bodyweight, feed intake, average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded weekly throughout the trial period. On completion of the growth trial, following a 3-day adaptation, a nutrient digestibility study was conducted over 5 days. Thereafter, pigs were fasted for twelve hours, weighed, slaughtered, and carcass samples were collected for analysis. Feed intake was not affected by dietary treatment, but ADGs were reduced at ANC levels > 15%, resulting in poor FCR. Protein digestibility was reduced at ANC levels > 15%, while ether extract and bre levels increased. Warm and cold carcass weights were lower at ANC levels > 15, with improved meat redness and lightness. It was concluded that ANC could replace SBM in the diet of growing pigs at less than 15% inclusion level.

Forage conservation is an important potential solution to seasonal variation in feed quality and quantity and herder-farmer conflicts in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Considerable variations exist in the type of forages conserved and the preservation methods across SSA. Hay from cultivated forages is commonly made with mechanical mowers and balers by large-scale commercial farms. In contrast, smallholder farmers, who dominate farming on the continent, make hay from natural pastures and straw from crop residues or stockpiled forage. Mechanized harvesting and storing of silage are also practiced by commercial farmers in various countries including South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya. Smallholder farmers rarely make silage, despite repeated recommendations about its potential to bridge the dry season feed gap.