UNIMTECH and Njala University have partnered on a research proposal entitled “Climate-Smart Livestock Production: A One-Health Approach in Sierra Leone”.
Upping the gear in research collaboration between Njala University and UNIMTECH since Mallam O. joined UNIMTECH as Deputy Vice Chancellor less than a year ago, the two institutions have today jointly submitted a CAD$1.5m research proposal to IDRC Canada.
The co-Principal Investigators, Prof. Roland Suluku, Head of the Animal Science Department at Njala University and Mallam O. at UNIMTECH and an adjunct professor in the School of Community Health Sciences at Njala University, are confident about the work their teams have put together.
Talking about the proposed project, Prof Suluku said that “climate change severely impacts agricultural activities through increasing temperatures. These temperature changes can lead to altered precipitation patterns, resulting in excessive rainfall in some regions. However, the impact of rainfall changes is inconsistent across different areas. While some regions may experience intense rainfall at times, others might face drought or a complete absence of rain. These fluctuations in rainfall patterns often lead to rain occurring unexpectedly or being absent when it is most needed. Such variability directly affects water availability for crops and livestock, thereby impacting their health and productivity. Furthermore, rising temperatures and changing weather conditions also influence crop and forage growth cycles, as well as the prevalence of pests, diseases, and livestock yields.”
On the research questions of the project, Mallam O. explained: “Our research proposal wants to know: 1. How does climate change affect the quality and management of water and pasture, and how does this impact livestock production in the fields? 2. In what ways are water and animal feed requirements altered by climate change? 3. What is the impact of climate change on cattle management practices? And 4. Does the establishment of Animal Health Clubs in cattle-rearing communities contribute to improved disease surveillance and management of outbreaks among livestock?
If funded, the direct beneficiaries of the proposed project will consist of individuals engaged in cattle raising within the project areas, and youths in cattle-rearing communities.
Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, February 5th, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)