LIVESTOCK AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: FROM RESEARCH TO INNOVATION

Abstract

A farming system is defined as a population of individual fann systems that have
broadly similar resource bases, enterprise patterns, household livelihoods and
constraints, and for which similar development strategies and interventions would be
appropriate (Dixon et al, 2001). In our studies the analysis of farming systems is based on the problem orientation of the researcher. The research questions can be derived through participatory modes, action research, scientific discourse and literature sources. The definition of the farming system, the boundaries, the components and interactions, the flows within and into and out of the system are determined by the system of study and the research questions. The context of the farming system has become equally important to determine driving forces for development. These may consist of a diversity of extemal opportunities and constraints ranging from watershed management to markets to credit facilities to human health services and education. The farm system may respond to these driving forces individually, but general patterns of evolution can be found which are useful for creating supportive policies for development.

Agricultural research has over a long period of time produced encouraging results to enhance productivity of livestock. All of us know the experience of dairy cows producing 6000 kg milk on station versus the 3000 kg farmers produce on fann. The key issue was the question how to transfer our station technology to the farmer. We assumed a linear model with researchers handing over results to extension agents to deliver to the often resource-poor farmers. We now realise that this simple model is not fit for the real and complex world of farmers. Farmers are aware of risk, of competing labour needs, of cost of inputs, of policies and of market opportunities or lack of these. Determinants in their context like resources, technology, markets, policies, institutions and public goods, and information interact with the farming system. Farming households develop different management strategies for their farm: intensification, diversification, scaling up, off-farm income and exit from farming. They utilise mixes of these strategies in response to internal and external changes.

The recognition of failure of the linear model has inspired scientists like Barnett
(2004) to fonnulate the innovation systems approach. A successful innovation system taps into the stock of existing knowledge and enables farmers to use it. The innovation systems approach requires a focus on the interplay of actors: researchers, extensionists, farmers, policymakers, traders and processors. Innovation is not so much about new inventions, but about new combinations of production , processing, marketing and services offering new perspectives for farmers.