The World Bank-supported Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) in Sokoto State has recorded its first delivery of a Girolando calf produced through its Artificial Insemination (AI) programme.
The beneficiary, Bello Gumburawa, disclosed this to reporters in Wurno Local Government Area of the state on Tuesday.
Gumburawa said he was among the livestock farmers who benefited from the AI exercise, adding that three of his cows were inseminated.
He said one of the cows had successfully delivered a healthy male Girolando calf.
Gumburawa expressed appreciation to the Sokoto State Government and L-PRES for introducing the intervention, describing it as a significant milestone in efforts to improve livestock productivity in the state.
“The Girolando calf is superior to the local breeds in several respects, particularly its agility and good birth weight.
“This development has marked a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to improve livestock productivity,” he said.
He urged other livestock farmers to take advantage of the programme to improve the quality of their herds and increase productivity.
It was reported that the Sokoto L-PRES Project has so far carried out AI on more than 200 cows and heifers across the state, with the exercise still ongoing.
The initiative is expected to promote the production of improved cattle breeds with faster growth, better muscle development and higher milk production potential.
It was further reported that the Girolando breed is recognised for its high milk production potential and adaptability, making it suitable for improving dairy production and livestock commercialisation.
