Characterization of local pig production systems in Ghana

Abstract

This study was conducted to characterize local pig production systems in Ghana. Seventy-nine (79) local pig farmers from six regions of Ghana were interviewed for the production systems characterization. Predominantly, local pig farmers practiced extensive/scavenging (56%) with very few practicing intensive system of production (19%). Sources of parent stock were mostly inherited/family (31.65%), bought from market (21.52%) or from within the district (7.59%). Reasons for raising local pigs were; for meat (39.33%), savings (24.72%), wealth and status (19.10%), breeding (8.99) and manure (7.87%). The major challenges faced by local pig farmers were feeding (41%), housing (22%) and labour (15%). Prevalent diseases in the study areas were diarrhoea (40%), mange/lice infestation (27%), pneumonia (10%), and worms (17%) with few anaemic conditions (6%). Improvement in husbandry practices (housing, record keeping and feeding) must be encouraged and farms like Babile pig breeding station need to be promoted or supported.

Key words: Characterization, production systems, local pigs, husbandry.