L-PRESS distributes feed equipment to livestock farmers in Nigeria

NIGERIA – The Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRESS) has distributed feed-processing equipment and improved pasture seeds to livestock farmers in Zamfara State to improve access to animal feed and boost livestock productivity.

The World Bank-supported project is providing the equipment to more than 40 livestock unions and several farmer clusters across the state.

The intervention includes 100 crushers, 100 choppers, 50 grinders and 50 pellet machines, alongside more than 1,000 sacks of improved pasture seeds. The seeds include Brachiaria, Mucuna, and Lablab varieties for livestock production.

Dr Mukhtar Salihu Anka, Animal Health Officer of L-PRESS in Zamfara, said the equipment is intended to help farmers address challenges in accessing animal feed and improve livestock productivity.

Beneficiaries include livestock clusters in Bulunku, Daza, Gidandutsi and Kuraji, where large numbers of livestock farmers operate.

Anka said beneficiaries had been trained on the proper use of the equipment and would be monitored to assess the impact of the intervention. 

He also urged farmers not to sell the equipment or other inputs provided under the programme.

Supporting feed production during dry seasons

The equipment is intended to allow farmers to process agricultural materials into livestock feed and preserve feed for use during periods of limited pasture availability.

The College of Agriculture and Technology, Bakura, also received a grinder, crusher and chopper. 

Provost Nasiru Nuhu Anka said the machines would support research, practical training and demonstrations on modern livestock feed-processing methods.

The college will also use the equipment to process crops and preserve livestock feed for the dry season.

Bilyaminu S. Fawa, Financial Secretary of the National Association of Cattle Dealers, Processors, and Marketers of Nigeria in Zamfara, said the intervention would benefit livestock farmers, cattle dealers, processors and butchers across the value chain.

L-PRESS is a six-year World Bank-supported programme focused on improving livestock productivity, resilience and commercialisation in Nigeria, while strengthening institutions serving livestock farmers.

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