The Faculty of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences (FoAFCS) at the University for Development Studies (UDS), in collaboration with Harper Adams University (UK), the Federal College of Animal Health and Production Technology (Nigeria), and the University of Reading (UK), organized a high-impact workshop on goat production. The event, held at the Nyankpala campus of UDS, brought together agricultural experts, academics, and industry professionals to address challenges and opportunities in goat production, particularly in Ghana and Northern Africa.

In his opening address, Ing. Prof. Abdul-Ganiyu Shaibu, Dean of the School of Engineering, represented the Campus Principal and Chairman of the event, Prof. Mohammed Muniru Iddrissu. He provided an overview of UDS’s history, highlighting its growth from the establishment of its first faculty to its latest addition, the Faculty of Law. Prof. Shaibu underscored the significance of goat production in Northern Ghana’s socio-economic development and expressed gratitude to Harper Adams University for partnering with UDS.

Expert Insights into Goat Production
Dr. Edmore Mashatise, the National APD Director for Harper Adams University in Accra, delivered a presentation on the state of goat production in Ghana. He emphasized the importance of studying goat production and identified areas for collaboration to enhance productivity. "Goats are integral to the livelihoods of many rural farmers. Our goal is to find practical solutions to the challenges they face," Dr. Mashatise stated.

Prof. Terry Ansah, Dean of FoAFCS, UDS, focused on goat nutrition and feed resources in Ghana. His presentation delved into the digestive systems and nutritional requirements of goats, highlighting the importance of high-quality feed. He introduced innovative strategies such as silage production and forage hay storage to address feed shortages. "To improve goat production, we must embrace modern technologies in feed conservation and management," Prof. Ansah remarked.

Addressing Challenges in Goat Production
Mr. Jonas Berchie, National Director of the Animal Production Directorate at the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA), outlined the challenges facing goat production, including poor nutrition, disease outbreaks, breeding inefficiencies, and housing management. He noted, "Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach, combining education, technology, and policy support."

Dr. Juliana Bawah from UDS’s Animal Science Department encouraged farmers to adopt better animal selection practices, advising them to choose breeds with strong reproductive potential. Similarly, Mr. Issah Muniru Abubakari, Regional Officer for Animal Production in Northern Ghana, urged farmers to prioritize professional approaches over traditional inheritance practices in goat rearing.

Prof. Gabriel Ayum Teye of UDS emphasized the importance of hygienic and sustainable processing of goat meat. "Proper slaughtering and sanitary procedures are critical to ensuring high-quality goat meat rich in protein and iron," he noted.

Global Perspectives and Technological Innovations
Dr. Holly Vickery from Harper Adams University delivered an online presentation on goat welfare from "farm to fork," shedding light on global goat production trends. "There are over 506 million goats worldwide, playing vital roles in food systems," Dr. Vickery shared. She also discussed welfare risks in extensive and intensive production systems.

Mr. Lawrence Dartey, based in Pong Tamale, provided insights into goat breeding in Ghana, emphasizing their role in food production, manure generation, and income support. He highlighted local breeds, their characteristics, and their contributions to agricultural sustainability.

Strengthening Standards and Best Practices
Prof. Frederick Adzitey, Head of the Department of Animal Science at UDS, called for improved standards in slaughterhouse operations. "Slaughterhouses should be equipped with adequate facilities, and veterinary officers must inspect goats before slaughter to ensure food safety," he advised.

Conclusion
The workshop concluded with a strong call for collaboration and innovation to address the challenges of goat production in Ghana. Participants expressed optimism that the partnerships established through the workshop would yield sustainable solutions for goat production in the region. "We are committed to empowering farmers with knowledge and resources to enhance productivity," Prof. Shaibu affirmed in his closing remarks.

Story by:
Ibrahim Yakubu 
UDS Media