Productivity of transhumant Fulani cattle in the inner Niger delta of Mali

Analyses were based on data collected on 2,550 animals in 3 herds from 12/78 to 3/83. The results indicated high calf mortality, low reproductive performance, and moderate milk production. A negative correlation was found between cows" milk production and reproductive performance. Average productivity per cow was low and highly variable over both seasons and years. The results of the study were compared with findings reported in the literature on Sudanese Fulani cattle in Mali and on both the related White Fulani strain in Nigeria and the Gobra in Senegal. The major interventions proposed for increasing the overall productivity of the Sudanese Fulani cattle in the Niger delta concern improvements of the harima pastures through irrigation and fertilization; this would provide high-quality forage near the village for milking cows, and feed supplementation for improving calf survival and growth rate. A total of 40 tables and 26 figures are included. (Author abstract, modified)