Characterization and conservation of local pig genetic resources in Sekhukhune District of Limpopo Province

Abstract

A pig genetic resources study was conducted in five municipalities of Sekhukhune with the aim of characterising pig genetic resources in communal farming systems. A total of 52 pig farmers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire instrument. Of the 52 farmers 65 percent were subsistence, 27 percent back-yard and 8 percent emerging farmers. The primary data collected included demography, production practices, herd structure, feeds and feeding, breeding practices, marketing, and conservation methods. Two indigenous pig farmers and one exotic pig farmers were selected for purpose of measuring growth and other linear traits of piglets over a period of two months. Four hundred and nine (409) pigs were used for body measurements of which 124 were from emerging farms, 71 from subsistence and 206 from back-yard farms. Data was analysed using SAS Package (SAS, Version 9.3). Demographic representation of farmers showed 79 percent of farmers being males, 85 percent married. With 50 percent between the ages of 55-64; 60 percent owning the farms and 83 percent Northern Sotho speaking farms. The majority of farmers (39 percent) had secondary education with 81 percent trained in production and over eight years of farming experience. The objective of farmers raising pigs was mainly for selling at a frequency of 60 percent. Over 70 percent of the farmers had a good grasp of controlling internal and external parasites. However, over 80 percent of the farmers did not vaccinate or get advice from extension officers. When comparing the production systems, there was no variation in the number of young pigs produced. Only 13 percent of the emerging farmers and eight percent in back-yard had proper housing. Only 10 percent of the farmers had financial assistance. That led to only 10 percent of the farmers able to feed complete rations to their animals. Cross breeding has been practiced within communal areas by over 75 percent of the farmers. Over 15 percent bought boars from commercial farmers. This practice enabled them to sell their piglets to private buyers at 50-60 kg at an average price of R500 – R1000. Though the value of indigenous breeds was rated high by over 63 percent the size and price compelled them to cross-breed. An establishment of an indigenous breeding program is highly recommended.