Improved Pasture Production in Developing Countries: The Case of Ethiopia, Eastern Africa (Agriculture Issues and Policies)

Developing countries have nearly two thirds of the world's livestock populations but produce less than a third of the world's meat and a fifth of its milk. Low output is due to low off take rates and low yields per animal. Beef and veal output per head of cattle in North America is 281 kg whereas yields in Africa and Asia are about half of this. In South America, beef and veal output per animal is 213 kg. Milk yields are only one tenth in Africa and one quarter in South America and Asia of those in North America and Europe. This data suggests that major improvements in livestock productivity are possible. Research can provide technology to help for achieving productivity increases but technology needs to be transferred to smallholder producers to ensure impact. This book examines the improvements that can be made in regard to pasture production in developing countries with a particular emphasis on Ethiopia.