Abu Dhabi Farmers’ Services Center (ADFSC) isn’t ‘kidding’ around when it comes to improving meat quality in the capital.
The centre’s Breeding Programme welcomed Dorper and Damara sheep and Boer goats to improve the genetic potential of herds in Abu Dhabi, increase growth rates and improve the quality of the local Mahali crossbread meat.
“ADFSC started by identifying two breeds of sheep and one breed of goat from Australia that would be compatible with the local population,” said Christopher Hirst, chief executive officer, Abu Dhabi Farmers’ Services Center.
“We also asked farmers to register their interest in the programme. We then selected farms from that list in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and the Western Region according to a set criteria.”
Selected farms involved in the first phase will need to be registered for the veterinary services and adhere to certain salinity levels on their farms. Sheep and goats have the ability to produce multiple offspring if they are kept under a well-managed system that requires specific nutrition, good health and well-shaded housing with adequate water and feed.
The imported bucks and rams will remain at one farm for a specific period before moving on to another farm to ensure maximum benefit.
Local farmers are feeling optimistic about the programme, hoping to see an increase in income and a higher quality meat to sell in local markets.
