Productivity in different cattle production systems in Kenya.

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Economics
• Animal Science
• Livestock Management

Background:

• Cattle are vital for livelihood, culture, and social value in Kenyan farming households.
• Understanding productivity across different cattle production systems is crucial for optimizing resource utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate and compare the productivity of three main Kenyan cattle production systems.
• To identify key factors influencing cattle productivity and inform targeted improvements.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of peer-reviewed and grey literature for production parameters (reproduction, mortality, yields).
• Market price data collection for livestock and products.
• Utilized the Livestock Productivity Efficiency Calculator (LPEC) model to estimate net output per megajoule of metabolisable energy.

Main Results:

• Net outputs per livestock unit year(-1) were USD 215.1 (small-scale dairy and meat), USD 146.6 (large-scale dairy and meat), and USD 84.8 (small-scale dairy).
• Milk production was a major contributor (91.8% in small-scale dairy); cattle sales were highest in large-scale mixed systems (45.1%).
• Sensitivity analysis showed milk yield, age/weight at maturity, and parturition rate most impacted output.

Conclusions:

• Significant productivity differences exist among Kenyan cattle production systems.
• Further research into production constraints like diseases is needed.
• Disease control and improved management offer substantial benefits for farmers and society.