MTWARA: THE Mtwara-Mikindani Municipal Council, under the Department of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries, has successfully engaged in artificial insemination (AI) for a total of 253 cows to enhance milk production and support Livestock keepers economically.
Speaking during a field visit to livestock keepers utilizing AI techniques in the Mtwara-Mikindani Municipality, Head of the Municipal Department of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries, Mr Mipawa Majebele, said that the initiative began in October last year.
He highlighted that the initiative started with the training of two local experts (Livestock Officers II, Bariki Mwandunga and Francisco Nduye) in September – October last year at the National Artificial Insemination Center (NAIC) in Arusha to provide accessible services to the community.
“Previously, this service was administered by experts from the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, which resulted in a deficit of services for the public. Recognizing this gap in expertise, the government took action through the Ministry,” he noted.
Adding, “They facilitated the training of two experts at the National Artificial Insemination Center (NAIC) situated in USA River, Arusha. The intention behind this initiative was to bring essential services within reach of the people.”
Elaborating further, he said, the government also facilitated the programme by supplying 100 doses of subsidized cattle sperm, 35 liters of nitrogen gas, and 12 bottles of hormone stimulants.
According to him, these efforts aim to empower cattle breeders and contribute to improving livestock breeds, increasing milk production, and enhancing livelihoods.
Literally, artificial insemination (AI) in animals is a reproductive technology used in animal breeding to facilitate the fertilization of an egg without the need for natural mating.
This technique involves the introduction of sperm directly into the reproductive tract of females, usually through the vagina, cervix, or uterus, with the aim of achieving pregnancy.
Providing an overview of breeding services in the municipality, Mr Majebele detailed that a total of 253 cows have been bred across 10 wards, namely Naliendele, Chuno, Likombe, Mtawanya, Magomeni, Tandika, Shangani, Ufukoni, Mitengo, and Mikindani.
He added that, out of the 253 cows, 186 are currently pregnant, 29 failed to conceive, and 38 have already given birth.
Elaborating regarding the artificial insemination (AI) procedures conducted in the 10 wards, he specified that Naliendele had 83 cows inseminated, Chuno 43, Likombe 4, Mtawanya 6, Magomeni 8, Tandika 3, Shangani 31, Ufukoni 28, Mitengo 12, and Mikindani 55, totaling 253 cows.
ALSO READ:Makatapola farmers seek milk market
During the field visit, Mtwara-Mikindani Municipal Director (MD) Mwalimu Hassan Nyange expressed his satisfaction with the significant progress made by the department, noting that this marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of animal husbandry practices in the country.
“I am truly inspired; I might even consider starting to raise cows myself,” he remarked, reflecting on the positive impact of the initiative.
Furthermore, MD Nyange emphasized the importance of breeders adhering to the guidance provided by livestock experts from the Mtwara-Mikindani Municipality to ensure successful outcomes in their breeding endeavors.
For her part, livestock keeper Ms Desdelia Mpili commended AI as a cost-effective and efficient method, noting that it has proven to be an effective and economical approach.
She emphasized that the bull-rearing costs have decreased, and the calves produced through this method often exhibit superior traits compared to those born through conventional means.
“I have discovered impressive cows using this technique, which not only helps in disease prevention but also significantly reduces expenses,” she remarked.
Ms Mpili also encouraged fellow breeders to embrace, place their trust in, and adopt AI, confident that they would reap the rewards.
Detailing the key aspects of artificial insemination in animals, livestock officer II and AI technician at Mtwara-Mikindani Municipal Council, Bariki Mwandunga, said sperm can be collected from a male animal through various methods, often involving specialized equipment or procedures for ejaculation.
He said the sperm is typically evaluated for quality before being processed.
“Then, the sperm can be frozen and stored for long periods, using liquid nitrogen for preservation. This allows breeders to use genetic material from superior males long after they are deceased or not physically available for breeding,” he elaborated.
Mentioning other aspects of AI, he mentioned timing: “For AI to be successful, it is crucial to perform the procedure during the female’s estrus (heat) cycle when the egg is available for fertilization. Advances in reproductive technology allow for the monitoring of estrus cycles using hormonal treatments and other methods.”
For his part, another AI technician at Mtwara-Mikindani Municipal Council, Francisco Nduye, detailed that there are various techniques for performing AI, including transcervical insemination (TCI), whereby a catheter is used to deposit sperm directly into the uterus.
Laparoscopic Insemination (sperm is deposited directly into the reproductive tract under anesthesia) and Intravaginal Insemination (sperm is deposited in the vagina), which can be less invasive but may have a lower success rate.
According to reports, AI advantages include genetic diversity because AI allows the use of genetics from a broader range of males, promoting genetic diversity and enabling the selection of desirable traits.
Also improved breeding efficiency because AI can reduce the number of animals needed for breeding purposes and facilitate the swift dissemination of superior genetics. As well as disease control, as AI minimizes the risk of transmitting sexually transmitted diseases compared to natural mating.
“AI in animals is a significant advancement in reproductive technology that enhances breeding efficiency and genetic quality in various species. It plays a crucial role in agriculture, conservation, and improving breeding programs and continues to evolve with advancements in veterinary science and genetics,” expressed Nduye.
Overall, the AI initiative in Mtwara-Mikindani Municipality showcases a significant advancement in livestock management and promises a brighter future for local livestock keepers and their communities.
