A systems study of the small producer dairy sector in Mauritius

Abstract

The government of Mauritius is promoting milk and beef production for economic and social reasons.

The study has formalised a national dairy and beef production system with emphasis on the small producer sector. The components of the system and the relationships among them have been described.

Two models have been developed - one at the national level, to estimate herd dynamics and production levels; the second model has been used to determine the farm size which will allow subsistence living by a family of five, and profitability at the farm level.

Experimentation with the first model has highlighted the unreliability of certain estimates. The situation has been resolved by indicating range estimates for production and self-sufficiency ratios for milk and beef. The second model has indicated the major importance of calving rate, improved feeding and the price of feed inputs and milk on farm profit.

The long time horizon associated with dairy development has been indicated and some guidelines have been presented for a milk and beef development strategy, based on the small producer sector.

The study has indicated that: (1) The feed potential of the by-products of sugar production is largely unexploited. (2) Reproductive performance should be improved, at the national and farm level. (3) The adoption of improved feeding should be targeted for extension at the small producer level. (4) Small producers should be encouraged to integrate milk and beef production to increase the profitability of their enterprise. (5) Inputs should be available to small producers at the most economic price. (6) Credit facilities, at realistic terms, should be made available to small producers.