Browsing by Author "Atieno, Rachel"

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    Feed Analysis Information Retrieval System for Ruminant Livestock in Sub-Saharan Africa
    (Addis Ababa University, 1996-06) Atieno, Rachel; Chowdhury, G.G. (PhD); Alemayehu, Nega (PhD)
    Feed information is a valuable resource for animal production users which should be made available in the appropriate format to meet the user need, This study examined the need for an automated Feed Analysis Information Retrieval System for Sub-Saharan Africa, as a means for improving the overall animal production in the region. To attain the objectives of the study, the existing feed information systems were reviewed and analyzed to identify factors which limit these systems' availability and use . A common phenomena identified was lack of standard formats for documentation and characterization of the animal feed stuffs in the region.Additionally, most of the information on the composition of the indigenous African feedstuffs were mainly found at Research Institutions where their availability was limited to researchers of such institutions. Surveys undertaken as pan of this work revealed that this information is important to individuals and groups involved in animal production and should be made widely available in the region; many institutions and individuals are currently depending on foreign Feed Tables which may not always be appropriate for the situation in Sub-Saharan Africa. To enhance the use of, and accessibility to this information. a prototype feed analysis information retrieval system (FAIRS) has been developed using d Base IV. FAIRS has two main components: the user interface and the Database. The Database structure has been designed using a relational data model. In the data structure, International Feed Standards and codes have been incorporated to facilitate standardization of the system, and information exchange at institutional and regional levels. The second component viz the interfaces has been designed to facilitate interactive system operations by both the experienced and novice users. The system's function and user interfaces are designed with simple user instructions at all levels.It is recommended that available feed composition information be compiled and incorporated in this or similar databases , which can then be produced on CD-ROM and made available to National Agricultural Research Systems. Internet connectivity is increasingly becoming available to countries in Africa, a development which should be taken advantage. The possibility for providing feed information on the Internet should be examined by regional and international institutions like lLRl, with Information Technology capabilities.