In a bid to advance agricultural practices and livestock management, the Kogi State Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) is currently conducting an intensive training program for extension agents on Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHPs).
The training started with Extension Agents in Kogi West and was held at Kabba, the headquarters of the District.
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The State Project Coordinator, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, in his opening address, emphasized the critical role of GAHPs in ensuring both animal welfare and the sustainability of agricultural endeavours.
He said, “The primary objective of the training is to equip extension agents with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote and implement GAHPs effectively.”
“Good Animal Husbandry Practices encompass all measures adopted on the farm, from procuring and rearing healthy animals to ensuring their welfare until final slaughter or milking. This includes providing clean shelter, feeding a hygienic and balanced diet, and preventing diseases.
The Coordinator elaborated on the importance of the training, stating, “By enhancing your expertise in this field, we aim to elevate the standards of animal welfare, boost productivity, and improve the efficiency of our agricultural sector. As extension agents, your role is pivotal in bridging the gap between research-backed practices and the farmers on the ground.”
Throughout the program, participants engaged in interactive sessions, asking questions and sharing their experiences. The training also focused on practical aspects of GAHPs, ensuring that extension agents could effectively disseminate this knowledge to livestock farmers across the state.
The extension agents were encouraged to serve as valuable resources in their communities, providing guidance and facilitating the adoption of best practices among livestock farmers. The expected outcomes include healthier livestock, improved yields, and sustainable agricultural development in Kogi State.
The resource persons, Prof. R.Y. Olobatoke and Mr. Ayigun Ade, both from the College of Agriculture Kabba, led the training sessions. Their expertise and insights were instrumental in providing a comprehensive understanding of GAHPs, ensuring that the extension agents received high-quality and practical knowledge. Their contributions were highly appreciated by the participants, who benefited greatly from their extensive experience and dedication to advancing livestock management practices.
As Kogi L-PRES continues to play a vital role in transforming the livestock sector, training for the Central and Eastern Senatorial Districts will follow.
