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Author
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Dzawo, Tanaka
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Title
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A Comparative analysis of stud bull selection criteria for enhancing the Tuli cattle in Mashonaland East, Zimbabwe
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Abstract
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This study conducted a comparative analysis of stud bull selection criteria for enhancing the Tuli cattle herd in Mashonaland East, Zimbabwe. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods to comprehensively assess current practices and their impact. A semi-structured questionnaire was used as the primary data collection tool, administered to 39 smallholder farmers who responded out of 60 targeted, yielding a 65% response rate. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 27, employing descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations) and comparative analysis of means across different selection method groups. The major findings revealed a continued reliance on traditional, subjective selection methods, with 69.2% of farmers primarily using visual appraisal. Adoption of modern breeding techniques remained limited: 23.1% utilized Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs), 12.8% adopted Artificial Insemination (AI), and only 5.1% engaged in Genomic Testing, with adoption concentrated in commercial farming systems. Crucially, the study found a strong positive correlation between objective selection criteria and herd performance. Herds where EBVs and/or Genomic Testing were employed exhibited significantly higher Average Daily Gain (0.48 kg/day) compared to visual appraisal (0.28 kg/day), representing approximately a 71% improvement. Similarly, these advanced methods resulted in a 20% higher fertility rate (90% vs. 75%) and an 8% higher calf survival rate (95% vs. 88%) compared to herds selected via visual appraisal. Key challenges hindering the adoption of modern techniques included high costs (74.4%), lack of expertise (59.0%), poor infrastructure (53.8%), and limited access to genetically superior breeding stock (48.7%). The study concludes that objective, data-driven stud bull selection criteria are significantly more effective in enhancing Tuli cattle productivity than traditional subjective methods. Despite their proven benefits, the widespread adoption of modern techniques faces substantial socio-economic and infrastructural barriers among smallholder farmers. The study recommends promoting targeted training and capacity building on modern breeding techniques, enhancing access to affordable genetically superior breeding stock and related services, and developing community-based breeding programs. Additionally, fostering collaboration between farmers, researchers, and extension services, along with policy support for infrastructure development and financial incentives, is crucial. The findings have implications for policy and practice, highlighting the potential for improved livelihoods, food security, and sustainable agricultural practices through the strategic promotion and implementation of objective livestock breeding technologies in Mashonaland East and similar contexts.
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Date
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May 2025
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Publisher
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BUSE
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Keywords
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Stud bull selection
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Tuli cattle
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Supervisor
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Dr. Nyamushamba
