Theory question 107
Livestock Management(a) Give four reasons for rearing goats in West Africa.
(b) List three advantages and three disadvantages of the extensive system of rearing goats in West Africa.
(c) State six general characteristics of West African cattle breeds.
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(a) Any four: meat; milk; skins for leather; manure; income; cultural/religious uses; cheap to keep and prolific; can eat browse
(b) Advantages (any three): cheap; little labour; animals get exercise; varied diet. Disadvantages (any three): theft and predators; diseases and parasites spread; uncontrolled breeding; damage to crops; slow growth; difficult record keeping
(c) Any six: small to medium body size; adapted to heat and local conditions; some trypanotolerant (N'dama, Muturu); humped (zebu) or humpless; slow growth and late maturity; low milk yield; hardy, survive on poor pasture; resistant to some local diseases
Lists under each part.