Local Goats Turned International Super Stars: The Nigerian Dwarf Goats.

Local Goats turned international super stars: The story of Nigerian/West African Dwarf Goats: 

Introduction:

In this blog post, we delve into the remarkable world of Nigerian/West African Dwarf (WAD) goats—a breed that holds immense significance in the rural villages of West Africa. These goats have captured the attention of researchers and livestock owners due to their exceptional traits of trypanotolerance and resistance to gastrointestinal (GI) nematode infections. 

Nigerian Dwarf goats found their way to America through various means, primarily through the efforts of breeders and enthusiasts interested in their unique characteristics and qualities. Here's a brief overview of how Nigerian Dwarf goats came to America:

Nigerian Dwarf goats are believed to have originated from West Africa, particularly Nigeria. In the 1950s and 1960s, some goats from West Africa, including Nigerian Dwarfs, were imported to the United States as part of efforts to improve and diversify the American goat population.

Zoos and Exotic Animal Collections: Some Nigerian Dwarf goats may have been acquired by zoos and exotic animal collections for display and educational purposes. These settings introduced the breed to a wider audience in the U.S.

Hobbyists and Homesteaders: In the 1970s and 1980s, Nigerian Dwarf goats gained popularity among hobby farmers, homesteaders, and urban farmers due to their small size, gentle temperament, and high milk production relative to their body size. Breeders and enthusiasts sought to preserve and promote the breed, leading to more imports and breeding programs.

Breed Associations and Registries: The establishment of breed associations and registries, such as the American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA) and the Nigerian Dwarf Goat Association (NDGA), further solidified the presence of Nigerian Dwarf goats in America. These organizations played a crucial role in standardizing the breed's characteristics and promoting responsible breeding practices.

Breeding and Conservation Efforts: Over the years, dedicated breeders have continued to work on improving the Nigerian Dwarf goat's genetics, health, and productivity. Some breeders have also focused on conserving and preserving the breed's unique attributes.

Today, Nigerian Dwarf goats are popular not only for their milk production but also as companion animals and for their participation in various agricultural and educational programs

By understanding the origins of this unique breed, its economic importance, and its resistance capabilities, we hope to shed light on potential ways to enhance the productivity of other vulnerable goat breeds worldwide. We will also highlight the disparity in recognition between the WAD goats, particularly the Nigerian Dwarf goat's celebrity status abroad, and the overlooked Parent  breed in rural Nigeria.

Milk Production Quality and Benefits of Nigerian Dwarf Goats Compared to Other Breeds:

High Milk Quality: Nigerian Dwarf goats produce milk with high butterfat content, averaging 6-10%. The rich and creamy milk is prized for its excellent taste and suitability for making cheese, butter, and other dairy products.

Small Size, Abundant Milk: Despite their small stature, Nigerian Dwarf goats can produce a surprising amount of milk relative to their body size. This makes them ideal for small-scale dairy farming, homesteads, and urban settings.

Gentle Temperament: Nigerian Dwarf goats have a friendly and docile nature, making them easy to handle and milk. Their calm demeanor reduces stress during milking, resulting in better milk quality.

Efficient Feed Converters: These goats are efficient at converting feed into milk, making them economical to maintain. They require less food compared to larger dairy breeds, making them suitable for areas with limited grazing resources.

Dual Purpose: Nigerian Dwarf goats are not only valued for their milk but also for their meat and fiber. They provide a versatile option for farmers looking to diversify their products.

Easy to Manage: Due to their small size, Nigerian Dwarf goats are easy to handle and require less space than larger dairy breeds. Their adaptability and low maintenance needs make them suitable for both experienced and novice farmers.

Adaptability to Various Climates: Nigerian Dwarf goats can thrive in diverse environments, including hot and humid climates. Their adaptability makes them a viable choice for farmers in different regions.

Year-Round Breeding: Nigerian Dwarf goats have the ability to breed year-round, which means consistent milk production throughout the year.

Homesteaders' Delight: For homesteaders and urban farmers, Nigerian Dwarf goats offer a sustainable source of fresh milk and dairy products, reducing dependence on store-bought options.

Origins and Adaptation:

The story of the West African Dwarf goat begins with the modern domestic goat, Capra hircus, believed to have originated from the wild Bezoar goat, Capra aegagrus, found in Asia Minor and across the Middle East. Among the ten primary goat breeds, the West African Dwarf stands out as a significant member. Also known as pigmy goats, these adaptable creatures have been named differently in various countries, including Cameroonian, Nigerian, Guinean, and Fouta Djallon.

WAD goats thrive in diverse ecosystems, from humid and sub-humid regions to drier savannas, inhabiting areas below latitude 14° north. While some theories suggest a common origin from the Cameroonian Dwarf goat, others believe Nigerian WAD goats might have distinct origins. However, the exact genetic and archaeological evidence for their origins remains elusive.

Economic Importance:

In West Africa, goats constitute approximately 30% of the ruminant livestock and contribute about 17% and 12% of the region's meat and milk production, respectively. Within Sub-Saharan Africa, the WAD goat holds a prominent position, with an estimated 147 million goats distributed across agro-ecological zones and livestock production systems. Among the 18 West and Central African countries, the WAD goat is the most prevalent and vital indigenous breed.

Of these countries, Nigeria boasts the largest WAD goat population, with around 11 million goats residing in the humid and savanna zones. The goats are predominantly owned by small-holder rural farmers, for whom these animals are precious assets. Women and children play a pivotal role in WAD goat husbandry, with children herding the goats and women overseeing their daily care and management.

Benefits to Rural Communities:

WAD goats offer a wide range of socio-economic benefits to rural communities. They serve as a source of cash income through the sale of meat, provide security through milk production, and offer valuable resources like skins and manure for crops. These goats contribute significantly to food security, particularly for households with limited resources, where they are often the only livestock owned.

In times of crisis, such as crop failure or family illness, the goats can be sold to generate crucial cash. This has earned them the monikers "cow of the poor" and "bank on the hoof," highlighting their vital role in supporting the livelihoods of rural communities. Given their importance, any effort to enhance WAD goat productivity would have a profound impact on these communities, especially the most vulnerable among them.

The Nigerian Dwarf Goat's Celebrity Status:

While the WAD goats, particularly the Nigerian Dwarf goat, have garnered celebrity status abroad, they have gained recognition for their charming appearance, small size, and friendly demeanor. As a result, Nigerian Dwarf goats have become popular as pets and show animals in various countries worldwide. Their fame has spread far beyond their West African origins, captivating goat enthusiasts and hobbyists alike.

The Unsung Local Heroes - The parent breeds back home:

Amidst the international acclaim showered on the Nigerian Dwarf goats, one cannot overlook the lesser-known yet equally remarkable Parent breeds with the same features. These goats, native to Yoruba land and many other parts of Nigeria, possess their own unique traits and cultural significance. Despite their important role in local communities, they have not gained the same level of attention like their counterpart abroad.

Unlocking the Hidden Potential: Revitalizing Local Goat Milk and Cheese Production in Nigeria

Surprisingly, Nigerian farmers have yet to fully tap into the incredible advantages of farming local goat breeds for milk and cheese production. With a substantial population of goats in the country, we have the potential to claim the prestigious title of the world's largest producer of top-notch goat milk and cheese.

It's time for a fresh awakening in raw goat milk production, moving away from over-reliance on canned or powdered milk. Embracing the richness of local breeds can revolutionize the dairy industry, offering countless benefits to both farmers and consumers. Let's embark on this journey together, nurturing our local breeds and unlocking the bountiful rewards of high-quality goat milk and cheese. 

Conclusion:

As we continue to explore the origins, characteristics, and potential applications of WAD goats, including the Nigerian Dwarf goat's popularity abroad, we must not forget the unsung heroes back home. 

These goats, just like their WAD counterparts, play a vital role in supporting rural communities and are deserving of recognition and appreciation on a global scale. 

By celebrating and preserving the diversity of goat breeds, we can ensure a sustainable and thriving future for both livestock and the communities that depend on them. It is time for Nigerian farmers to grab the unique advantage of these common breeds for economic benefits.