Husbandry and Productivity of Red Maasai Sheep in Arumeru and Monduli Districts in Tanzania

Abstract

This study was undertaken to describe the husbandry practices and productivity of the Red Maasai sheep in Arumeru and Moduli districts in Tanzania. Sixty three farmers from each of the two districts were interviewed. Data were analysed using SPSS computer package. All farmers (100%) practice an extensive production system where sheep graze together with cattle and goats. The majority (61.9%) of the farmers use communal land to graze their animals, and children are the main source (69.0%) of labour. Almost half (50.8%) of the farmers indicated to supplement their sheep with mainly (65.6%) maize bran. Identified constraints to production were diseases, drought, lack of capital, poor markets and extension services, thefts, and predators. A plastic apron was found to be an effective indigenous technique to control mating and practice seasonal breeding. Age at first lambing for the majority of Red Maasai sheep was 13 to 18 months and lambing intervals of 12 to 18 months. Most sheep lambed between October and January. Twinning cases were few (15.9%) indicating a low twinning rate in the population. Breeding rams were selected within flocks, and many farmers (95.2%) preferred seasonal breeding to allow ewes to lamb in the wet season. Disposals were done to get income, remove infertile ewes, and slaughter for food and rituals. Generally, the productivity of Red Maasai sheep was low due to poor husbandry practices. It was concluded that improved management was likely to enhance sustainable production and conserve the breed.