Antigua livestock improvement project

The evaluation covers the period 1/84-3/87. The implementing agency, Winrock International, generally performed well and progress was made, particularly toward three project objectives. (1) The project demonstrated the technical feasibility of carrying out appropriate production and management interventions. (2) The quality and quantity of livestock feed from pasture and crop by-products was improved and preserved. (3) Winrock provided training for Antiguans in livestock and pasture management, herd health, and special skills, such as artificial insemination. On the negative side, the major objective to increase meat production and multi-farm cattle by 50% among selected producers was not achieved. A drought in 1984 delayed introduction of many technological improvements for about 1 year; this delay should have led to a project extension, as recommended by the mid-term evaluation. Nevertheless, project improvements may enable some farmers to achieve the projected increase within another year. To further increase the project"s impact on production, it is recommended that additional TA be provided to the cooperating group to sustain the transfer of technology. The project contributed to replacing restrictive with facilitative policies, such as long-term land leases and decontrolled meat prices, which have increased farmers" interest in livestock investmentsn. The project also established and institutionalized relations between the Livestock Department and cooperative groups and it reinforced government commitment to the livestock industry. Several lessons were learned. (1) Winrock"s extensive experience in similar projects was essential to overcoming adverse project conditions and achieving objectives. (2) Policy reforms resulted from the clear and direct connection between technical and policy issues and Winrock"s ability to demonstrate the results of improved production practices. (3) Discussions held with other donors during project design and implementation led to the development of follow-on activities. A European Development Fund livestock project is scheduled to begin in 7/87.