Effect of Ambient Temperatures on Dairy Production in Africa. A Critical Literature Review

Abstract

Purpose: Dairy farming together with crop farming for decades has been a source of livelihood among the rural residents in Africa. The majority of people practice agriculture for capital creation and food security. The overall objective of this study was to examine influence of ambient temperatures on dairy production in Africa. Methodology: The paper used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and to extract knowledge gaps. Findings: This study concluded that climate variability was evident in the area with variations in temperature and precipitation. Temperature and precipitation had rose from maximum averages across the years in the past 30 years. From the findings it is arguable that different places with Africa continue to be affected by climate variability. To the dairy productivity, exotic and indigenous dairy breeds are affected differently by climate variability. As per productivity, exotic breeds tend to be least affected unlike indigenous breeds. For instance, some common animal vegetative crops were highly hit and lowly heat by climate variability like Napier grass and natural grass respectively. Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This study recommended that creation of awareness on matters pertaining to temperature and its effects on the dairy sector by the relevant country environmental ministry. This will build capacity about amplified challenges emerging from ambient temperatures to dairy farming. For instance, spread of diseases, delayed fodder growth and hampered animal feeding behavior.