WOLKITA UNIVERSITY

COLLAGE OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCE

DEPARTEMNT OF ANIMAL PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY

ASSESSMENTS OF CURRENT SHEEP PRODUCTION SITUATION IN EZAH

WORDA

A RESEARCH PROPOSAL SUBMITTED TO DEPARTEMNT OF ANIMAL

PRODUCTION AND TECHNOLOGY FOR PARTIAL FULLFILMENT OF BS.C
DEGREE IN ANIMAL SCIENCE

BY ID NO.
MOHAMMEDAMIN SHEMSU 092/10
HUSSEN SHIFA 058/10
MESERT YILMA 083/10
RESHAD FEREJE 099/10

ADVISOR; MAHMOUD.H (MSC)

FEB, 2022
WOLKITA, ETHIOPIA

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LIST OF ABBREVATION

CSA Central Statistics Authority

EBI Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute
EPA Ethiopian Privatization Agency
FAO Food and Agricultural Organization
IBC Institute of Biodiversity Conservation
TLU Tropical livestock units

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 ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Above all, we would like to thank the almighty GOD, we are particularly grateful to our advisor
Mahmoud (Msc) for his encouragement, willingness to supervise our research proposal and his
valuable comments from early stage of proposing the proposal.

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Table of Contents
LIST OF ABBREVATION..............................................................................................................i

ACKNOWLEDGMENT.................................................................................................................ii

Abstract:...........................................................................................................................................v

1. INTRODUCTION.......................................................................................................................1

1.1. Background of the study.......................................................................................................1

1.2. Statement of the problem......................................................................................................2

1.3. Objectives..............................................................................................................................2

1.3.1. General Objective...........................................................................................................2

1.3.2. Specific objectives..........................................................................................................2

1.4. Significance of the study.......................................................................................................2

1.5. Scope of the study.................................................................................................................2

1.6. Research question.................................................................................................................3

II. LITERATURE REVIEW...........................................................................................................4

2.1. Socio Economic Importance of Sheep Production in Ethiopia.............................................4

2.2. Sheep production...................................................................................................................5

2.1.1. Flock structure and production objectives......................................................................5

2.1.2. Reproduction and production aspect..............................................................................6

2.1.3. Distribution and improving schemes of indigenous sheep.............................................7

2.1.4. Sheep management and husbandry................................................................................8

2.2. Major Constraints of Sheep Production..............................................................................11

2.3. Opportunities of sheep production......................................................................................12

3. MATERIALS AND METHODS..............................................................................................14

3.1. Description of the study Area.............................................................................................14

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 3.1.1. Geographical Location.................................................................................................14

3.2Sampling techniques.............................................................................................................14

3.3 Methods of Data Collection.................................................................................................14

3.4 Methods of Data Analysis....................................................................................................14

4. WORK PLAN............................................................................................................................15

5. Budget Requirement..................................................................................................................16

6. REFERENCES..........................................................................................................................17

7. Appendix....................................................................................................................................22

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Abstract:
Ethiopia is believed to have the largest livestock population in Africa. This livestock sector has
been contributing considerable portion to the economy of the country, and still promising to rally
round the economic development of the country. In livestock production, sheep production takes
major stake in Ethiopia. Ethiopia has the largest livestock population in Africa, with 65 million
cattle, 40 million sheep, 51 million goats, 8 million camels and 49 million chickens in 2020.
Sheep are the second most important species of livestock and been reared mainly by smallholder
farmers. The review has addressed two specific objectives (Opportunities and challenges) of
sheep production in Ezah worda. Accordingly suitability of the area for sheep production, the use
of sheep as important cash source by farmers, increased demand for sheep meat in local and
foreign markets, government’s commitment and support to increase export sheep product to
foreign market and low cost of sheep production are among opportunities of sheep production in
the Ethiopia. On the other hand, shortage of capital or lack of credit on required time, occurrence
of disease, Feed shortage and quality problem, quantity shortage and improper feeding of sheep,
shortage of grazing land, drought, labor shortage, water shortage and loss of sheep by predators,
awareness problem and poor husbandry system are found been challenges of sheep production in
the country. To alleviate or reduce the effects of these constraints or challenges of sheep
production in Ethiopia efforts should be made. According to this study there are different
opportunities to rear sheep in the area and farmers are not properly utilize the resource different
constraints which need coordinate work by responsible group to boost the productivity of the
sector.
Key words: Sheep, Sheep production, challenges, opportunities, production system

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vii
1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background of the study

Ethiopia is believed to have the largest livestock population in Africa. This livestock sector has been
contributing considerable portion to the economy of the country, and still promising to rally round the
economic development of the country (CSA, 2018). The Ethiopian agriculture employs more than 80%
of the population (Duguma et al.2012).

Livestock also plays an important role in providing export commodities, such as live animals, hides, and
skins to earn foreign exchanges to the country (CSA, 2018). In livestock production, sheep production
takes major stake in Ethiopia. Ethiopia has the largest livestock population in Africa, with 65 million
cattle, 40 million sheep, 51 million goats, 8 million camels and 49 million chickens in 2020 (CSA,
2020a). Between 2000 and 2016, the average stock of livestock, measured in tropical livestock units
(TLU) per 100 people, stood at 51 TLU, which is more than double the continental median of 23 TLU
(Management Entity. 2021).

Sheep is the second most important livestock species in Ethiopia estimated at 39.89 million (CSA,
2020). There are diverse breeds and ecotypes distributed from cool alpine climate of the mountains to
the arid pastoral areas of the lowlands. To date, there are nine genetically distinct breeds of sheep
characterized through phenotypic and molecular methods (EBI, 2016).

Indigenous sheep breeds provide farm households with cash income, meat, fiber, and manure and other
services (skin). As compared to cattle, sheep have shorter production cycles, faster growth rate, ease of
management, and low capital investment (Tadesse et al., 2015). However, sheep productivity is
constrained by shortage of feed, prevalence of diseases and parasites and lack of market information
(Hizkel et al., 2017).

The level of production and productivity of sheep in the country is generally extremely low, due to
several technical (genotype, feeding and animal health), institutional, environmental and infrastructural
constraints (Markos, 2006).

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1.2. Statement of the problem
Although Ethiopia and Our study area have a high population of sheep but their productivity is low due
to production challenges and constraints, poor management system like feeding, watering and health
care management practice and poor marketing system are limiting factor of production system in the
study area. In addition to this poor linkages have been observed among different organization involved
with sheep. There for it is a high time and urgent need to investigate various management factors
(feeding, watering, housing and health care) related to sheep production and marketing techniques in our
study area. As a result this title is selected as a topic of study to justify this factor that concerned with
sheep production based on the following objective.

1.3. Objectives

1.3.1. General Objective

 To identify the challenges of sheep production system in the study area

1.3.2. Specific objectives

 To identify the challenges of sheep production system in and around Ezha worda
 To identify the constraints of sheep production system in and around Ezha worda

1.4. Significance of the study

In Ezha worda particularly, no formal and systematic analysis of sheep production and marketing has
been carried out. Hence the information generated by the study is expected to identify major challenges
and strengthen the understandings of sheep production and making constraints and opportunity hope
fully. The study will significantly contribute to outline challenges and opportunities of sheep production
system in order to make efficient uses of the existing sheep population and exploit their role as a
principal source of rural livelihoods.

1.5. Scope of the study

The study aim at identifying the potential challenges, the extent of utilization of existing sheep
production and marketing system in the study area. This study is limit to five Keble which is in Ezha
worda. This is mainly because of limited availability of to undertake the study on wider scale, although
the study has limits both in sample size and area coverage. Moreover, the study can serve as starting
point to undertake further research in the study area.

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1.6. Research question
 What are the major challenges and constraints sheep production and marketing system in the
study area?
 What kinds of opportunities have in the study area?

II. LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1. Socio Economic Importance of Sheep Production in Ethiopia

The importance of small ruminants to the socioeconomic well-being of people in developing countries in
the tropics in terms of nutrition, income and intangible benefits (i.e., savings, an insurance against
emergencies, cultural and ceremonial purposes) cannot be overemphasized. Small ruminants also play a
complementary role to other livestock in the utilization of available feed resources and provide one of
the practical means of using vast areas of natural grassland in regions where crop production is
impractical (Markos et al., 2006). Small ruminants are not only advantageous for human being during

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periods of cyclical and unpredictable food shortages but they are also useful for balancing the energy
and protein supply during normal variations occurring over the years as well as between different
seasons.

Indigenous sheep in Ethiopia have a multipurpose role for smallholder farmers as sources of income,
meat, skin, manure and coarse wool or long hairy fleece. They are also a means of risk avoidance during
crop failure. Thus, increasing the current level of productivity of sheep is essential to meet the demands
of the ever-increasing human population. On the other hand, by improving the productivity of sheep,
export earnings as well as the income of the household will be improved. There are however, a number
of constraints that affect the productivity of sheep such as mortality, feed scarcity and inadequate
indigenous breed utilizations to production. Various scholars from different corners of the world have
been advising that the performance of indigenous sheep could be improved through management and
there is also potential for genetic improvement through selection.
In all regions, small ruminant contribute significantly to food production and economic output. About
31-38% and 21-33% of the Ethiopian smallholder farmers own sheep and goat (Asfaw and Jabbar,
2008), The livestock sector contributes 30% to 35% of the Ethiopian agriculture GDP, 19% of the total
GDP and more than 85% of farm cash income (Benin et al.,2002). Small ruminants account for about
40% of the cash income earned by farm households, 19% of the total value of subsistence food derived
from all livestock production, and 25% of total domestic meat consumption (Adane and Girma, 2008).
The demand and prices for sheep are also increasing locally due to increased urbanization and increased
income in the cities. The demand is especially pressing given that the current population of the country
is expected to rise to about 129 million by the year 2030 (IBC, 2004).

2.2. Sheep production

2.1.1. Flock structure and production objectives

About 53.3% of the small ruminant keepers in Degehabur Zone keep them mainly for income generation
purpose (Fikru and Gebeyew 2015). The second main reason for keeping small ruminant in is for milk
production. For most pastoralist and agro pastoralist, however, their economic profitability is highly
limited by various factors. In most cases, there is fluctuation of the amount of milk marketing of cattle
due to drought and disease; so pastoralist and agro-pastoralist nowadays keep small ruminants as source
of cash income. In agreement to these, small ruminants are reared in many parts of the country mainly
for income generation (Sisay 2008 and Getaneh 2006).
In western and south- western Ethiopia reported by (Edea et al.2012), most farmers keep sheep
primarily as source of income. Multiple functions are particularly important in low and medium input
production environments. Different authors addressed the importance of multiple values of indigenous

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livestock breeds in developing countries in low input system (Kosgeyet al 2004; Mwacharo and Drucker
2005; Wurzinger et al 2006; Wuletaw et al 2006). Lack of proper recognition of the purpose of keeping
animals by their owners has been a major reason in the failure of past genetic improvement programs
(Sölkner et al 1998).
According to Fikru and Gebeyew (2015), a study conducted in Degehabur Zone ewes represent larger
proportion while suckling group are the second largest age group in the flock at household level; and the
castrates represent the lowest proportion in the flock. The higher proportion of females may be attributed
to the prevalent practice of retaining females for breeding while males are either castrated in order to
fetch higher price or sold when they reach market age. The higher proportion of females in the flock
followed by suckling age group was in agreement with report (Tsedeke, 2007) and higher proportion of
females than males in national small ruminant structure stated (CSA, 2008).

2.1.2. Reproduction and production aspect

Although Ethiopia is the second in Africa and sixth in the world in sheep populations (Demelashe et al.
2006).indigenous sheep are poor in performances. Ethiopian indigenous sheep are characterized by slow
growth, late maturity and low production performances. The mean carcass production of such sheep is
estimated around 10 kg
(FAO, 2009), which is low as compared to the average of sub-Saharan countries with annual off take
rates of around 33% (EPA, 2002). The productivity of local sheep is low with high mortality of lambs
(Tibbo, 2006). The low productivity of indigenous flocks can partially be attributed to the low
management standards of the traditional production systems. However, provision of vaccination,
improved feeding, clean water and night time enclosure relatively improves the production performance
of indigenous sheep. In addition, skins of sheep are important byproducts of small ruminants in sub-
Saharan Africa (Wilson, 1992) and contribute to national revenue in most countries.
Indigenous sheep have various unique traits, of which, those having an economic importance were
reviewed. In this review, the maximum age at 1st parturition (months) of sheep was 23.77 (Alexandre et
al. 2008) at Martinik- Guadeloupe and the minimum was reported as 12.7 (Tsedeke, 2007) in Ethiopia.
According to Berhanu and Aynalem (2009a), average lambing interval and annual reproductive rate of
Ethiopian sheep were 262±53.4 days and 1.88±0.44, respectively. Moreover, Tsedeke (2007) reported
that the average litter size was estimated to be around 1.70 per ewe for Arsi-Bale sheep, but the litter
size per ewe of Menz and Washera sheep is around 1.11 (Dibissa, 2000 and Taye et al. 2010) in
Ethiopia. There is an average birth weight variation across the country. Mukasa and Lahalou (1995)
reported that average birth weight in Ethiopia is 2 kg, but, Milan et al. (2011) reports the average birth

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weight of sheep in Serbian is about 3.37 kg. Moreover, from the reviewed data, the minimum and
maximum average weaning weights of sheep were reported as 8.13 and 15 kg (Kassahun, 2000) and
(Berhe, 2010), respectively in Ethiopia. The milk yield per ewe of Ethiopian Afar sheep is 224 mL per
year (Getachew et al. 2010), but Pacinovski et al. (2006) reported that there was around 1.09lr for an
Awassi sheep breed from the country of Macedonia.
Based on the reviewed literature, the maximum feed conversion ratio of sheep was 15.6 (Sultana et al.
2010) in Bangladesh; whereas, the minimum was 4.7 (Price et al. 2009) from South Africa. However,
Mengistie (2009), from Ethiopia reported that the average feed conversion ratio and daily body weight
gain were 38.40 and 1.175 kg, respectively for Washera ram lambs. Moreover, Getachew et al. (2011)
reported that the average daily weight gains and carcass weight were also around 126 g and of 16 kg,
respectively for feedlot growth and carcass performance of Washera sheep in Ethiopia. From the
reviewed data, the minimum average daily body weight gains of sheep were reported as 0.07 kg
(Kassahun, 2000) in Ethiopia; whereas, the maximum was 0.32 kg (Price et al. 2009) in South Africa,
respectively. The minimum and maximum average matured weights of sheep were also reported as
21.6±9.3 and 41.5±2.0 kg, respectively. According to Abebe, (2010) in Ethiopia. The dressing
percentage and carcass weights of Ethiopian sheep were reported to be 42.5% and 11.0 kg (Berhe, 2010)
and 55.55% and 18 kg (Wood et al. 2010) from Bristol, respectively. Moreover, Berhe (2010) reported
that average carcass weight of Ethiopian sheep was 10- 12 kg and the annual mortality loss of sheep is
also estimated around 14-16%. Sandip (2011) reported, from India that the dressing percentage of the
Shahabadi Sheep ewes were 39%, which is low.

2.1.3. Distribution and improving schemes of indigenous sheep

Sheep are highly adaptable and distributed across a broad range of environments. They can utilize a
wide variety of plant species and are thus complementary to cattle and camels. Sheep generally do not
compete directly with these cattle and camels for feed. Gizaw et al. (2008) reported that there is high
morphological, ecological, ethnic and production systems diversity of indigenous sheep distributions in
Ethiopia. Lebbie et al. (1992) and Getachew et al. (2010) from Zimbabwe and Ethiopia respectively
reported that to improve the sheep production, selection and evaluation of the best animals should be
concentrated on the traditional sector. Generally, livestock improvement programs targeting smallholder
farmers need to incorporate existing traditional herding, breeding practices, trait preferences and the
multiple roles of sheep.
According to Kunene (2010), the phenotypic and genetic diversity between the indigenous sheep may
indicate that there is an opportunity of genetic exploitation by selecting animals based on phenotypic as
well as genetic characteristics. Improving schemes of indigenous sheep in the country should

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incorporate the niche areas and agro ecologies. Moreover, improvement plans for indigenous sheep
should also consider socio cultural believes and ethnical interests of the country.

2.1.4. Sheep management and husbandry

2.1.4.1. Feeds and feeding systems

The main feed resources for sheep production are natural pasture, improved forage and crop residue
showing varied availability in different seasons. Natural pasture or indigenous grass was the main feed
resource during the rainy season whereas natural pasture, crop residue and improved forage, in the dry
season (Feleke et al, 2015). The same results have been reported by Abebe (2000) and Getahun (2008)
that the main feed source is communal grazing land, crop residues and crop stubble. Grazing is the
common feed source for small ruminants (Figure 1). Communal grazing land, roadside grazing, private
grazing, riverside grazing and indigenous browser are the major types of grazing for sheep. Although
there is difference in utilization across months of the years, communal grazing lands are utilized
throughout the year (Fikru and Gebeyew, 2015).
. Similarly many reports (Tsedeke 2007; Tesfaye 2008) indicated that natural pasture is the main feed
resource for small ruminants and cattle. The availability and quality of forages are not favorable and
uniform in nutrient quality all year round. As a result, for animal that is not supplemented the gains
made in the wet season is totally or partially lost in the dry season (Alemayehu, 2003). Indigenous
browses are other sources of feed in the study area especially for goats while concentrates are not
common. Yeshitila (2007) reported the utilization of indigenous browses as feed resources for livestock
in alaba districts. A survey result by Alemayehu (2005) generalized that from the overall feed intake of
animals in Ethiopia, natural pastures (including browse plants) and crop residues contributed 80-90 and
10- 15 percent, respectively.
According to Fikru and Gebeyew (2015), sheep and goats sped most of (95.6%) their time grazing and
browsing. On average they only spent about 6.4 hours in days grazing/browsing during the day time.
They are under close supervision throughout the day and in all seasons of the year to protect them from
predators. In lowlands areas, where goats are dominating and grazing lands are relatively larger they are
also protected from wild animals.
Whereas, in the highlands where sheep are dominant there is small grazing time; small ruminants are
protected from cropland and from predators. In the current study, supplement salt, cultivated fodder
leaves, maize Stover, wheat bran for all age, this is in line with the report of Yeshitila (2007).
According to Feleke et al (2015), in KembataTambaro Zone, on months August and February, serious
feed scarcity was prominent and utilize different feeds: agro industrial by-products, tubers and other
feed supplements whereas sell their sheep specially lambs to reduce feed requirement of sheep on dearth

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period. During November, December, June and May, there were excess feed supplies that encourage
farmers to fatten their sheep by buying additional sheep from the market. A marked seasonal variation in
the quantity and quality of feed supply and the acute problem of feed supply during dry season (IRLI,
2000). Shrinkage and decline yield of grazing lands driven by increase livestock population and drought
was reported to be the leading reasons for feed shortage across all the study sites.
Increases of human population and Decline carrying capacity of grazing land are also mentioned to
cause feed shortage (Fikru and Gebeyew 2015).

2.1.4.2. Sheep Housing:

A report in Doyogena Woreda by Feleke et al. (2015) , Keeping sheep in the main house together with
the family is very common (100%) which is in agreement with Tsedeke (2007). In contrast to this study,
Yenesew et al.2013, reported that 9% of the households provided separate housing. Zelealem et al. 2013,
in Northern Ethiopia reported that Farmers put their sheep in separate housing (pen) constructed in the
homestead or around the homestead.
Traditionally, the pens are constructed in two different ways. The first and most commonly used pen
constructed is open ended without roof which is usually used to confine sheep during dry season at night
and it is locally called “Dembe”. Except few respondents almost all households keep their flock
separately from large ruminants. The second one is mostly used to confine sheep during rainy season to
protect them from rain and cold. It is three or two side walls constructed from local materials such as
stone or wood and partially roofed which is locally called “Gebela”. Farmers with this sort of housing
keep all types of animals.
According to Fikru and Gebeyaw (2015), sheltering their sheep for reasons of protecting from bad
weather, predators, and to provide supplement in the evening. Small ruminants are sheltered for
protection in most rural communities such as, in central rift valley (Samuel, 2007) and however, places
of sheltering and type of house were varying. Almost above 50% households shelter their animals in
separately constructed house, and others are using main house and grazing area (Feleke et al, 2015).
Housing of flocks in the main house is more common than other reports in the country (Birhanu, 1998).
In Borena pastoralist, Corrals used for adults while family house used for lamb/kids reported by
Coppock D Layne (2000). Almost half sheep keepers are practice culling due to various reasons. The
major reasons include physical defect, sickness, old age, and unwanted physical characteristics
(Yenesew et al, 2013). Culling of small ruminants was due to either old age or infertility or during
financial problem (Agyemang, 1998). Castration is a widely used practice for adding value to the
animals (Zelealem et al, 2013).
According to Tsedeke (2007) also reported traditional methods of castration as the major method
accustomed in Alaba district and only 10% use burdizzo.
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2.1.4.3. Mating Management:
A Research conducted by Feleke et al.2015, in Kembata Tambaro Zone reported that the average age of
ewe lamb at first mating is 9-14 months and mating occurs all year round usually in the field while
grazing. Uncontrolled breeding due to random mating, with the ram grazing together with the ewes,
leads to early breeding of females resulting in low conception rate, low birth weight and poor survival
rates. Mating within close relatives, especially sire daughter and ewe-offspring-could lead to inbreeding,
which might have resulted in increased mortality. Some farmers in northern Ethiopia practice control
mating to minimize weight losses and poor conformation in ewes (Zelealem et al, 2013).
Winter (dry season) is the most common seasons of birth with autumn taking the majority of births.
However, the season of reproduction (births) is not similar for all. Dry seasons are usually the seasons
known for feed scarcity since natural pasture and some browse plants shed their leaves at these seasons.
Therefore, lambs to be born in this season have lower birth weight and less body gain, hence, will have
lower survival rate. The lambs born in autumn face the same problem at times though they are in better
condition compared to that of lambs born in the dry season (Fikru and Gebeyew, 2015). Generally lambs
born at the late rainy season have the advantage of season in which they get better feed that might help
them to reach puberty at earlier age. Effect of season on lamb mortality in Ethiopian condition is
illustrated by various researchers (Birhanu and Aynalem, 2011; Mengestieet al., 2011; Milan et al.,
2011).

2.1.4.4. Diseases
According to Fsahatsion et al., (2013), reported that mortality rates attributable to diseases and parasites
are 25.3% (sheep) in Alaba, and 14.6% (sheep) in Gomma. Primary reasons for the prevailing high rate
of mortality can be attributed to diseases and parasitic infestations Tsedeke (2007), Tsedeke and
Endriase (2011) in Alaba and Woliyta and Dawro zone, respectively. As reported by Tajebe et al (2011)
economic losses due to disease and parasites have quadruplet their effect further when factors such as
feed shortage, poor management practices and environmental factors are prevalent. Moreover, according
to the report of Yohannes (2007) parasite and infectious disease were the major cause of sheep mortality
in Alamata worda of Southern Tigary. Yenesew (2010) and Desta and Oba (2004) who reported
considerable mortality of sheep caused by feed deficiency under traditional management system.
Shortage of feed and inadequate supplementary feeding were reported to be a major cause of livestock
mortality and poor performances in highland agro-ecologies of southern and central Ethiopia (Desta and
Oba 2004; Hassen et al 2010. Solomon et al., (2010), Paste despetits ruminants (PPR), foot and mouth
disease, pasteurellosis and anthrax are the most important diseases prevalent in Ethiopia , besides the
same incidences of teniasis (tape worm) helminthes problems and ecto- parasitic load (tick and mites)
too are prevalent.

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Feleke et al., (2015), Yenesew et al., (2013), reported in southern Ethiopia major common diseases
encountered in various flocks in order of significance were pasteurellosis, Pneumonia and internal
parasites which hamper performance of sheep.

2.2. Major Constraints of Sheep Production

According to Ehui, (1999); Tsedeke, (2010), Sheep production and productivity in Ethiopia is con-
strained by many factors such as scarcity of feed, lack of infrastructure, high mortality rates, inadequate
veterinary coverage, poor quality products and low average reproductive rates. However, high re-
productive wastage is the major constraint of sheep productivity, which also greatly reduces selection
possibilities; thus, improving the frequency of lambing and reducing mortality should be the emphasized
schemes of sheep production. Sheep have higher survival rates under unfavored conditions and are
widely adapted to different agro-climates. They can found in all ethnic groups and production systems
Feleke et al, (2015), Tsedeke, (2010), also reported farmers rearing sheep confess a range of interlinked
technical, socioeconomic and institutional bottlenecks. The most serious constraint hindering sheep
production in Kembata Tambaro zone is lack of capital. Another most devastating phenomenon that
curtails sheep productivity is land shortage. In addition feed scarcity, water shortage, disease like
parasite, market problem, inbreeding, poor management and awareness problem were the major
constraints followed to capital. Moreover, Abebe et al. (2000) reported that feed shortage in the dry and
rainy season, diseases, inadequate veterinary service and lack of capital are the main sheep production
constraints in Lallomamma Mider District, North Shoa.
A study conducted in Degehabur Zone shows that about diseases and parasites are overriding problems
in sheep production. In addition drought, feed and water shortage were another limiting constraint in
small ruminant production. Feed shortage in both seasons (dry and wet) limits productivity of small
ruminants and it was further worsened due to the absence of awareness and practice of feed conservation
techniques. Problems of input supply, credit services and appropriate extension services the major
constraints of sheep production (Fikru and Gebeyew, 2015).

2.3. Opportunities of sheep production

Feleke et al, 2015, reported despite there were many constraints that affect sheep production , there were
also a couple of opportunities to improve sheep production such as presence of good local adaptable
breed, government intervention, credit and market access, presence of NGOs, road and infrastructure
and favorable agro-ecology. With regard to government interventions, Areka research center and ILRI
have been engaged in supporting and providing an opportunity to improved technologies and capacity
building through training on sheep production.

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Modest interventions on the existing flock impediments, such as minimizing flock loss through diseases
and parasites control and proper feeding during dry seasons could potentially boost the flock
performances. The local sheep flocks demonstrate remarkable response to the local fattening
management practices and possess desirable physical characteristics adding high aesthetic value. The
local feeding management system entirely depended on natural pastures of spicy herbs drawn the
preference of urban consumers like the present “organic agricultural products”. High demand of the
small ruminants in the local market as a result of population increase, urbanization, and increase in
income (even within a district) can be considered as an opportunity for the small ruminant producers.
Nowadays, many abattoirs flourish in the country; so agents and assemblers purchase small ruminant
even at farm gate. Several development partners involved in higher learning, research and development
are currently committed to sheep and goat development in the zone. These could facilitate entry of
intervention (inputs, technology and recommendation) (Gebrezgihe rand Zelealem, 2013).
Importantly, because of their small body sizes, small ruminants have lower feed requirements that allow
integration of them into different enterprises. Moreover, in addition to requiring a small initial
investment, flock numbers can be restored more rapidly because of their fast reproductive rates, and they
are also suitable for meeting subsistence needs (meat and milk) of the smallholders. Furthermore, a
pressure of exotic breeds on indigenous types is much less for sheep, than other species including goat,
where the contribution of crossbreeding and breed substitution has been considerable (FAO, 1991).

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3. MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1. Description of the study Area

3.1.1. Geographical Location

The study can carries out in Edjaworeda, which is located ……….It is situated at about 189 km and 42
km away from the capital city of the country and the zone respective. The average temperature ranges
between 10 oc. To 0c.the annual average rain fall varies from 1000mm to 1400mm.

3.2Sampling techniques
Before conducting the real research work generally survey will Carrie out. Then discussion is held with
district animal science expert and development agent (DA) to identify the potential on sheep production
in Ezah woreda. Then sample Keble will select by purposive sampling method and house
hold/respondents will be numerate with the same sampling techniques. Accordingly fife Keble then ten
house hold from 3 Keble and eleven house hold from two Keble which make total of fifty two house
hold will include in this study.

3.3 Methods of Data Collection

Before data collection we are select the target Keble and targeted households which are located in Ezah
Woreda. Primary data will collect by using quaternary interview prepare for this purpose and check list
for focus group discussion and observation. The questionnaires include information on the current sheep
production situation in Ezah Woreda .secondary data will collect from district animal forage production
office.

3.4 Methods of Data Analysis

All data collected by house hold interview focus group discussion, observation and from secondary
source will be interre in Microsoft excel. These data will analyze by descriptive statistics particularly

12
means and standard deviation, frequency count and ranking index. The data will subjected to descriptive
statics using statistical analysis software (SAS).

4. WORK PLAN
No Activities Submission/Complication date
Jan Feb Mar Apr May
1 Preparation of research proposal x x
2 Writing research proposal x x
3 Developing the interview x
4 Developing research quotation x
5 Data collection and literature x X
6 Data analyzing and writing up of the result x X
7 Submission of first draft X
8 Correcting of the comment X
9 Submission of the final research to advisor x
10 Senior research presentation x
11 Final research paper submission x

13
5. Budget Requirement
No Item Unit No of item Total cost
1 Paper Stack 1
2 Pen Stack 1
3 Binder Pack
4 Printing Pkt
5 Photocopy Page
6 Transportation Trip
7 Flash Number

14
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Coppock D Layne (1994) The Borana Plateau of Southern Ethiopia: Synthesis of pastoral research,
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EBI, 2016. Ethiopian National Strategy and Plan of Action for conservation and utilization of Animal
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environmental sustainability in sub-Saharan Africa. Pp. 1-13 in Proc. 7th annual conf., Ethiopian
Society of Animal Production (ESAP), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
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Geneva, 2002. Accessed 22 October 2011. http://www.unctad.org/en/docs/poiteipcm4.en.pdf.
a) FAO (2009): FAO.STAT Data. Accessed 25 October (2011).
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Farmers and Pastoralists to the Development. Use and Conservation of Animal Genetic
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FAO. (1991). Indigenous African small ruminants: a case for characterization and improvement. Small
ruminant production and the small ruminant genetic resource in tropical Africa. Animal
Production and Health Paper. Rome
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constraints and opportunities of sheep production in doyogena woreda, kembata tambaro zone,
southern Ethiopia 1. Department of Animal and Range Sciences, College of Agriculture, Wolaita
Sodo University, Wolaita, Ethiopia, P.O.Box 13. 2. Doyogena Woreda Agricultural Office,
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Getachew T., Gizaw S., Lemma S. and Taye M.(2011). Breeding practices, growth, and carcass
potential of fat tailed Washera sheep breed in Ethiopia. Trop. Anim. Health Prod. 43(7), 1443-
1448.
Getahun L (2008): Productive and Economic performance of small ruminant production in production
system of the Highlands of Ethiopia. PhD dissertation, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart-
Hoheinheim, Germany.
Gizaw S, Van Arendonk J.A.M., Komen H., Windig J.J. and Hanotte O. (2007): Population structure,
genetic variation and morphological diversity in indigenous sheep of Ethiopia. Anim. Genet. 38,
621-628.
Gizaw, S., Abegaz, S., Rischkowsky, B., Haile, A., Mwai, A.O. and Dessie, T., 2013. Review of sheep
research and development projects in Ethiopia. Nairobi, Kenya: International Livestock Research
Institute

HizkelKenfo, Yoseph Mekasha, Yosef Tadesse .2018. A Study on Sheep Farming Practices in Relation
to Future Production Strategies in Bensa District of Southern Ethiopia. Trop. Anim. Health Prod.
2018, 50, 865–874. doi:10.1007/s11250‐017‐1509‐z.
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Resources: Country Report. A Contribution to the First Report on the State of the World's
Animal Genetic Resources. IBC, May 2004. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

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grazing and intensive feeding conditions. Pp. 173 in PhD. Thesis. Humboldt Universität zu
Berlin.
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production systems: Technical and infrastructural issues. Small Ruminant. Res. 70, 76-88.
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conservation. Ph. D. Thesis. KwaZulu-Natal Univ. KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
Management Entity. 2021. Ethiopia’s Livestock Systems: Overview and Areas of Inquiry. Gainesville,
FL, USA: Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Livestock Systems.

Markos Tibbo .2006. Productivity and health of indigenous sheep breeds and crossbreds in the central
Ethiopia highlands. PhD dissertation. Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Faculty of
Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Science(SLU),
Uppsala, Sweden.74p.

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Mengestie, T., A. Girma, L. Sisay, G. Solomon, M. Abebe and T. Markos (2011) Reproductive
Performance and Survival of Washera Sheep under Traditional Management System at
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Animal and Veterinary Advances, 10 (9) 1158-1165.
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Sesbania (Sesbania sesban) mixture at different levels of combination. Livest. Res. Rural. Dev.
21(12). Accessed 25 July 2011. http://www.lrrd.org/lrrd21/12/taye21211.htm.
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7. Appendix
Assessments of current sheep production situation in ezah worda
Interview questionnaires

Questionnaires number (number (code) ------------------------- date---------Enmerater, region------

Zone-------woreda-----------Keble------------

1. Part1. Socio economic characteristics

1.1 Sex of the respondent; male --------------- female------------
1.2 Age of the respondent;---------------years
1. Education status
A, Non-educated b, Read and write c, Elementary d, Secondary and above

1.1 Sheep production system

a. Intensive b. Semi- intensive c. Ex-tensive
1.2 Purpose keeping sheep(rank the purpose)
rank1 rank2 rank3
a. Income source
b. Wealth indicator
c. Cultural activity
d. Manure
e. Skin
f. Wool
g. Other
1.3 Member of household and hired labor for sheep activity
2. Feeding,graing and watering
2.1feeding source

A. natural pasture C. hay

B. established pasture D. Crop residues

E. Other

2.2 Grazing method a. free grazing b. herded c. paddock d. Other

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2.3 How is sheep flock herded during the day time?

a. M and F are separated b. Lambs are separated

c. All class sheep herded together d. sheep herded separately

2.4 Is there seasonal fluctuation in feed supply?

a. Yes b. No

2.5 At which season of the year do you experience feed shortage?

2.6 What is your copping mechanism?

2.7 Supplementation regime

a. Roughage b. Minerals (salts)/vitamin c. concentrates d. other (specify) ----------------

2.8 Source of water

a. Borehole/water hole b. Dam/pond c. River d. Spring e. pipe water f. rain water

2.9 Distance to nearest watering point

A. at home b. ˂1km c. 1-5km d. 6-10km e. ˃10km

2.10 Water quality

A. clean b. muddy c. salty d. other

3. Housing

3.1 Housing enclosure for sheep

A. Iron sheets b. Grass/bushes wood c. stone/bricks d. Earth f. Others (specify)

4. Health

4.1 List type of disease which occur frequently and affect the productivity of sheep in the area and
rank them based on importance

4.2 Access to veterinary services

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a. government veterinary services b. private veterinary services

4.3 Distance to nearest veterinary services

a.˂1km b.1-5km c.5-10km d.˃10km

5. Breeding

5.1 source of ram(s)

A. born in the flock b. purchased c. borrowed from village d. other -------------------

5.2 Do you practice selection for breeding ram

A. yes b. No

5.3 If your answer yes for 5.2 what is your selection criteria for breeding ram

A. appearance/conformation b. color c. character d. growth

5.4 Type of mating used

A. controlled b. un controlled

6. Castration and culling

6.1 Do you castrate?

a. Yes b.no

6.2 If yes, reason for castration

A. control breeding b. improve fatting

6.3 at what age do you castrate?

6.4 Do you give supplementary feed for castrated sheep?

A. yes b. no

6.5 If yes type of supplementary feed

6.6 Which class of sheep do you sell first in case of cash needed?

6.7 Average market age in months Male ---------------- Female ------------------

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6.8 Average culling age in months Male ---------------- Female ------------------

6.9 Method of sale

A. sold at market b. sold to neighbor

7. Reproductive performance

7.1 Average age at sexual maturity -------------------

7.2 Age at first lambing ------------------

7.3 Lambing interval ------------------

7.4 Average reproductive life time of ewe (in year) ---------

7.5 Average number of Lambing per ewe life time ---------

2. Constraints for sheep production

1. What are the main constraints and opportunity for sheep production and productivity? Rank the
constraints according to their significance

Rank 1 Rank2 Rank 3

A. Feed shortage ---------------------- ------------------ ------------------

b. Disease ---------------------- ------------------ --------------------

c. Drought ---------------------- ------------------ --------------------

d. Lack of superior genotype ---------------------- ------------------ --------------------

e. Water shortage ---------------------- ------------------ --------------------

f. Predator ---------------------- ------------------ --------------------

g. Labor ---------------------- ------------------ --------------------

h. market ---------------------- ------------------ --------------------

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