Summary
The complex and interrelated institutional and economic factors influencing livestock development are beyond the scope of one paper. Therefore, the intention for this and the other five papers, as stated in the terms of reference proposed by the organizers of the conference, is "not to provide an academically exhaustive treatment of the subjects (each subject could stimulate more than a separate contribution), but rather to facilitate to the conferees (each will be provided an advance copy of the six papers) the transition to discussions and group work by setting out pertinent and thought-provoking theories and hypotheses."
For the purpose of this presentation the (wetter) semi-arid and sub-humid regions of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and Asia have been chosen because of the high potential expected from development efforts in the two agro-ecological zones. However, the variations and site specificities within the zones and between the continents have not been ignored. Compared to Asia, the gap between the actual (rural-producer level) and the potential (commercial or research-station level) livestock and feed-resource production parameters has been found to be wider in most of the examples given from SSA. Therefore, the effort in Asia should be directed towards promoting innovations, developing new technologies, crossing with or introducing higher producing breeds, etc. The approach in SSA should explore the appropriate means of facilitating access to production inputs (and health services), while addressing the socio-economic constraints which impede the acceptance of improved interventions.
The complex problems relevant to mixed crop-livestock producers are highlighted. Special focus is given to the emerging trend in development initiatives towards the realization of the importance of adjusting advanced standards to the needs of target groups. The usefulness of involving and building upon existing local institutions in the delivery of inputs and the adoption of innovations is reviewed. The issue of incentives for the small-producer are discussed from the political, as well as the economic, dimension. The experience of IFAD and some other agencies is emphasized, and examples stressing certain points are discussed (e.g. the bankability and credit-worthiness of the poor who do not have collateral).
