Productivity of the Borgu breed at the Okpara breeding farm in Benin

The productivity of the Borgu breed was studied from 1994 to 1997 at the Okpara Breeding Farm in Benin with 2577 animals on average per year. The breeding mode was of the semi-improved type. Reproduction parameters were characterized by a fertility rate of 78 ± 8.4%, a calving interval of 441 ± 75 days, an age at first calving of 42.1 ± 5 months, and a longevity reaching 14-15 years. The birth weight was 19.0 ± 0.6 kg for males and 18.3 ± 0.6 kg for females. The average daily gain from birth to 12 month was 229.0 ± 0.1 g/d for males and 214.0 ± 0.1 g/d for females. Two regression equations were proposed to estimate male and female calf weights. The overall mortality rate was 1.2 ± 0.5, young animals being the most affected. The exploitation rate was 22-31% and the growth rate varied greatly. Borgu breed performances were better at the Okpara Breeding Farm than in traditional breeding systems.