Analysis of livestock production practices in the northern region of Côte d’ivoire

The survey consisted of collecting information using a questionnaire. Sampling covered 442 farmers of which 42 were sampled in the department of Boundiali, 150 in Ferkessédougou, 58 in Gbon, 52 in Karakoro, 50 in Kasséré, 40 in Korhogo and 50 in Tioro. The study revealed that 99 % farmers are male. Only, 1 % of them have attended school of general education. Agriculture is the main activity in 87 % of cases. Four main types of cattle are owned; N’Dama, Baoulé, zebu, Méré. Méré cattle are in extension in the study area; these cattle are owned by 46.5 % of farmer. In 85 % of cases, respondents practiced crossbreeding mixing local breeds with sahelian zebu cattle. All the farmers estimated that the natural pastures used for animal feed are not good. Moreover, Problems related to feed (34 %), animal driving (11.5 %) conflicts (24 %) and animal diseases (28.5 %) have been underlined by farmers as major constraints they faced in their activities. However, 41 % of respondents felt that the incomes obtained from the sale of live animals are important.