A potential strategy for research to improve small stock nutrition under the traditional farming system in Botswana

Abstract

Small stock plays an important role in the rural economy of Botswana. The majority of small stock is reared under traditional fanning systems. Nutrition is one of the limiting factors. This paper discusses how crop residues and browse plants may be incorporated in the production system. Methods of treatment of crop residues are discussed, with emphasis being placed on the use of ammonia. The paper further discusses the use of microorganisms’ to treat crop residues and use of recombinant DNA technology as future possibilities of applying technology to improve nutrition of small stock in Botswana.