Page 201 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

The remaining 6% of beef cattle herds in Tanzania are managed under improved
systems, which include both semi-intensive and intensive systems. The semi-
intensive system allows cattle to graze for part of the day, while additional feeding
and housing are provided. This system is common in areas where both crop
production and livestock keeping (agropastoralism) are practised. The intensive
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system is practised by livestock keepers who keep cattle using intensive systems
of management and feeding. This involves keeping animals indoors throughout
with all feed and water supplied in a controlled environment. Grazing the animals
in well-managed paddocks and a high level of feeding for high productivity is
also applied. The system allows better monitoring of animal health and growth,
though it requires more resources. An intensive system is common in land-scarce
areas, and where commercial meat production is well-planned. Although semi-
intensive and intensive systems are not widely practised in Tanzania, they can
help to produce quality beef, especially in towns and cities where demand is
increasing. Figure 10.2 shows cattle raised in a semi-intensive system.

Figure 10.2: Cattle raising in a semi-intensive system

Cattle breeds for beef production
Several cattle breeds can be raised for beef production. These breeds can
be grouped into local breeds, exotic breeds, and crossbreeds. Each group has
its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of breed depends on the
environment, resources, and production goals.

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