College of Veterinary Sciences

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Start date: 2023Has files: Yes

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    In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement for the Degree of Master of Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics.
    (Mekelle University, 2025-01-25) Tesfay Gebremariam Naizgi
    The low productivity of Ethiopian indigenous cattle can be improved through selection and crossbreeding with high-producing exotic breeds. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of age and breed on bull semen quality at the Regional Artificial Insemination Center (RAIC). A total of five Holstein Friesian (HF) and Begait bulls aged 3-9 years were used. Semen was collected using an artificial vagina, and evaluations were conducted using a photometer, stage heated microscope and eosin-nigrosin staining for sperm viability and abnormality assessments. Independent sample t-tests were employed to compare semen quality parameters between groups. The results indicated no significant differences (p > 0.05) between HF and Begait bulls in motility, concentration, and viability, except for semen volume, which was significantly higher in HF bulls (p = 0.001). The highest initial motility (78.75 ± 1.35%), concentration (1.75 ± 0.15), and live sperm count (81.00 ± 0.85%) were observed in bulls aged 4-6 years. Lower values were recorded in younger (< 4 years) and older (> 6 years) bulls. Progressive forward motility was negatively influenced by defective sperm cells (13.1 ± 1.4%), with tail abnormalities significantly affecting semen quality (p < 0.05). Minor sperm defects (10.6 ± 1.2%) were more prevalent than major defects (2.5 ± 0.2%), with bent-tail defects being predominant. Post-war conditions led to a significant increase in defective sperm cells, potentially due to aging and seasonal variations. The study concludes that age significantly affects semen quality, while breed does not. Introducing younger, proven bulls into breeding programs is recommended to enhance fertility rates and semen quality.
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    A Thesis Submitted to the College of Veterinary Science, Mekelle University, in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Science in Veterinary Reproduction and Obstetrics
    (Mekelle University, 2025-01-25) Kiros Abrha
    Reproductive disorders significantly impact the reproductive performance and economic efficiency of dairy cows. A cross-sectional study was conducted with the objectives to investigate major reproductive disorders and their impact on reproductive performance in dairy cows, to identify the reproductive performance of dairy cows in the study area, assessing the associated risk factors and investigating the seroprevalence of brucellosis in association with reproductive disorders in Enderta district from January 2024 to December 2024. Total of 384 dairy cows, 267 cross and 117 local, were sampled from randomly selected farms. The study found that 68.23% (n=262) of dairy cows were affected by reproductive disorders, with the most prevalent disorders being retained fetal membranes 26.82%, abortion 17.71%, repeat breeding 10.68%, and anestrus 7.03%. The reproductive performance revealed that the mean age at first service were 38.82±3.43 months and 26.57±2.07 months, the mean age at first calving were 47.71±4.49 months and 35.20±6.20 months, mean calving interval were 16.02±1.76 months and 14.15±1.45 months, the mean days open were 132.11±6.83 and 118.88±3.09 days, additionally, the number of services per conception of dairy cows were 1.85±0.55 and 1.70±0.71 for local and crossbreed respectively. Bovine brucellosis was tested using the Rose Bengal Plate Test on 384 serum samples, and the results were negative for brucellosis prevalence. The study also found reproductive disorders were significantly associated with the production system, age, body condition score, hygiene, and mating system (p<0.05). Furthermore, reproductive performance was significantly poor in cows affected by the reproductive disorders compared to the normal cows. This study showed that reproductive disorders significantly affected reproductive performance of cows. Finally, improved management practices, including better heat detection, veterinary care, balanced feeding, hygiene and awareness creation for dairy owners are crucial for enhancing reproductive health and performance.
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    ASSESSMENT OF REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE AND MAJOR REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH PROBLEMS OF LOCAL AND CROSS BRED DAIRY COWS, IN AND AROUND ADIGRAT CITY, NORTHEN ETHIOPIA
    (Mekelle University, 2024-12-25) Hareya Gebreegziaber
    This study was conducted to assess reproductive performance and major reproductive health problems in cross and local bred dairy cattle in and around Adigrat city of eastern zone, Tigray Region from January 2024 to December 2024. A total of 138 dairy farm owners were randomly selected in this 384 local and cross bred dairy cows interviewed to obtain information on the reproductive performance and major reproductive problems of dairy cows. In the study area for local and cross bred dairy cows of the average age at first service, age at first calving, calving interval and number of services per conception were 39.02 ± 6.5 months, 48.81± 6.32 months, 27.09±4.73 months and 1.88±.85 times respectively. The cross bred were 25.95 ±6.5 months, 35.62±6.58 months, 16.09±5.64 months and 1.82±.91 times respectively. The reproduction performance the estimated mean of age at first service, age at first calving and calving interval for local bred cows and cross bred cows were significant statistically different (P < 0.05) among the districts of the study sites while the mean of number of service per conception for local bred cows and cross bred cows were not significant statistically different (p>0.05) among the districts of the study areas. In high prevalence in the present study area included anestrus 86 (22.40%), retained fetal membrane 35(9.11%) and repeat breeder 49 (12.76%) and whereas reproductive health problems with lower incidence rate included dystocia 13 (3.39%), uterine prolapse 4(1.04 %), and abortion 11(2.86 %).The reproductive health problems in this study showed statistical significance different (p < 0.05) with respect to breed, body condition, and mating system. However, this finding indicated that occurrence of shows no statistical insignificance different (p>0.05) compared to age, productive system, and feeding system of the dairy cattle. The prevalence of disorders more in local breed (74.42 %) than cross breed dairy cows (48.68 %). In general it is recommended that improvement in management system, appropriate timing of AI for breeding system, and balanced feeding should be corrected to minimize the incidence of reproductive performance and reproductive health problem of associated risk factors in the study area.
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    EVALUATION OF BULL SEMEN QUALITY IN MEKELLE ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION CENTER, TIGRAY, ETHIOPIA
    (Mekelle University, 2024-02-25) Hadish Ghidey
    The study aimed to assess the quality characteristics of fresh and post-thaw semen from 10 artificial insemination (AI) bulls of different breeds (5 Holstein-Friesian, 2 Jersey, and 3 Begait) at the Mekelle Artificial Insemination Centre (MAIC). The research also compared semen quality among the breeds and evaluated the potential of the bull semen at the center. Additionally, semen samples from districts including Ganta Afeshum, Kilteawlaelo, Enderta, and Mekelle City were examined. A total of 400 semen samples were analyzed for various parameters, including volume, mass motility, individual motility, sperm concentration, normal morphology, live and dead cell counts, pH, acrosome integrity, and HOST (Hypo-Osmotic Swelling Test). Semen was collected once per week from each bull using an artificial vagina and diluted with the optixcell2 extender. Statistical analyses such as one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and paired t-tests were performed using SPSS 20.0 to determine the significance levels. The results showed that the mean values of fresh semen were as follows: volume 6.8 ml, mass motility 3.4 (on a scale of 1-4), individual motility 77.5%, concentration 0.7 billion/ml, normal morphology 69%, live cells 68.2%, and pH 6.2. According to the results obtained at MAIC, there were no significant differences between breeds (p>0.05) in terms of fresh semen volume, pH, concentration, individual and mass motility, and morphology, except for live cell count. In the post-thawing evaluation, the following parameters were observed individual motility - 59.9%, normal morphology - 64.4%, total live cell count 62.3%, acrosome integrity 70.7%, and HOST 61.5%. There were significant differences between the breeds (p<0.05) in terms of individual motility, normal morphology, and live and dead cell counts. However, no significant differences were found in acrosome integrity and HOST sperm quality (p>0.05).In the field study, the post-freezing motility was recorded as 42.7%, normal morphology 50.4%, live cell count 53.7%, acrosome integrity 49.3%, and HOST 51.6±0.6%. Overall, the results indicated that the semen quality of the bulls at the center was satisfactory, except for the lower morphology results. However, the districts' results were unsatisfactory, highlighting the need for further investigation at both the center and district levels.
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    ASSESSMENT ON CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF RED MEAT EXPORT ABATTOIRS IN AND AROUND ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
    (Mekelle University, 2024-06-28) Welay Yihdego G/medhin
    Meat Exports are significant for the country’s economic growth and sustainable development because they make foreign exchange. The study's main objective was to assess and identify the challenges and opportunities of red meat export abattoirs in and around Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A descriptive study that included both quantitative and qualitative methods was conducted, hence Semi-structured questionnaires were conducted with the relevant primary data from key staff members of the exporting companies, and overall, 130 respondents were selected for the study, and to analyze the data, Descriptive statistics and ranking method (Likert Scale) were used to analyze the data which then were presented using tables in frequencies and percentages. Based on the findings, results, and analysis of a study generally showed that shortage of access to necessary supply (86 %) and traceable animals (84%), lack of destination to penetrate new markets and poor performance (87%), insufficient information for over set market (74%), and inadequate distribution channel (70%), absence of national promotion (81%) and international computation (71%), and high transport and equipment cost (64%) are the major factors. Major opportunities for firms in this companies encompass ensuring production and product safety, optimizing average production costs, possessing export market knowledge, benefiting from proximity to foreign markets, and tariffs and quotas cannot challenge for red meat export development. The recommendations are the Formulation of an effective red meat export strategy, the Need for Governmental support for the implementation of a traceability system, the Devoted Promotion and Advertising Team, the Formulation of Short-term and Long-term Export Growth Policies, Establishing efficient distribution channels, Simplifying Export Sector Regulations, and Designated appropriate red meat animal transportation and slaughtering facility of red meat export abattoirs are crucial to enhancing red meat export performance in the country
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    CONSUMER PERCEPTION AND PREFERENCE TOWARDS PROCESSED POULTRY MEAT SOLD AND CONSUMED IN BISHOFITU TOWN, OROMIA REGION, ETHIOPIA
    (Mekelle University, 2024-02-28) Seyoum Hagos Mawecha
    As there was no scientific information and data regarding consumer’s perception and preference for processed poultry meat, this study was carried out with the objective of obtaining scientific information and data on consumer perception and preference of processed poultry meat sold and consumed in Bishofitu town, Oromia region, Ethiopia. Cross-sectional design was used. Pretested survey questionnaire was employed to collect the data. Chicken mortadella, fried chicken and chicken burger were mostly consumed processed poultry meat products in the town. Majority (54%) of the respondents pointed out that the reason to purchase processed poultry meat was availability, followed by (33%) saving time for preparation (33%). Mass media was not an important source of information toward processed poultry meat products, but shopkeepers or retailers were the main source of information, followed by window display. Majority of the respondents (67%) bought processed poultry meat directly from supermarket being advantaged to buy other food and goods at one way saving time, and more control on the selection, preparation of processed poultry meat products. Price was the most important attribute to purchase and consume processed poultry meat products. It was found that 94% of the respondents were unaware about the nutritional labeling of the products at point of purchase, and 93% of the respondents considered the quality of the products, based on product-oriented quality, but none of respondents responded quality control. Respondents perceived that perceived cost, sensory and healthiness were first and second most expected qualities, whereas, process and convenience were the most experienced qualities. Tenderness and flavor were the first and second most important preferred sensory qualities by the respondents. Around 94%, 88% and 87% respondents were unaware toward antibiotics, microbes and animal welfares, respectively. Respondents perceived that processed poultry meat freshness was the most helpful considered attribute when assessed the safety of processed poultry meat or food products. All domestically produced processed poultry meat was packaged by processors without controlling the quality and safety. Furthermore, food service providers stored processed poultry meat in refrigerators to increase shelf life and reduce meat quality losses. Majority of the food service providers (80%) responded that, fasting seasons affected sell of processed poultry meat products slightly
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    onsumer preferences and perceptions of processed red meat in Mekelle City, Tigrai, Ethiopia.
    (Mekelle University, 2024-02-28) Daniel Gebregezabher
    The present study was carried out to understand the consumer perception and preferences towards processed red meat. Purposive sampling method was used to select a total number of four hundred and forty (440) respondents. Data were collected by using a semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data which then were presented using tables in frequencies and percentages. The study group comprised of 367 males and 73 females. The educational background of respondents was found to vary between schools going to college/university degree. The study indicates that close to 94 percent respondents liked processed red meat. The weekly consumption level was the highest (75.45%) consumption pattern. Beef sausage and burger were the processed meat types consumed in the city. Consumption was affected by sensory quality (flavor, color, tenderness and juiciness) and nutrition, healthiness and safety and quality. In addition, extrinsic attributes such as reliability, attractiveness and packaging affect the consumers’ consumption. Furthermore, high price, accessibility (availability) and promotion were the main challenges for consumers where their main source of information was window display. Determination of consumer preferences and the factors affecting them had great importance as marketing tools and developing new strategies.
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    HANDLING PRACTICES AND POST-HARVEST LOSSES OF RAW COW MILK PRODUCED AND MARKETED IN MEKELLE CITY, TIGRAY REGION, ETHIOPIA
    (Mekelle University, 2023-11-28) Teame Ataklti Gebrehiwot
    The study was conducted from December 2022 to November 2023 in four selected sub-cities of Mekelle, Tigray region, Ethiopia, aimed to assess the general hygienic handling practice and post-harvest losses of raw cow milk produced and marketed in Mekelle city. A total of 160 respondents were interviewed to collect the required information from milk producers, vendors and cafeteria using a semi-structured questionnaire and observational check lists. Survey work includes hygienic milk handling practices, milk marketing channels, methods of milk quality tests, milk utilization, post-harvest losses of milk and constraints of milk production, processing and marketing. About 52.5% of the respondents were females and the rest 47.5% were males. From the total interviewed members about 33.8% were attend elementary school followed by high school(26.9%),diploma(22.5%),read and write (6.9%),degree (3.1%) and illiterates (2.5%). In the current study area, the average milk production per week was 123.09 liters/week. In the present study showed that majority of the respondents clean the barn once a day. Nearly all respondents used plastic containers for milking, storage and transportation purpose. This survey results revealed that cleaning of milk handling equipment is common in all respondents. The water source for milk producers (46.5%), vendors (100%) and cafeteria (100%) was tap water. The entire household in the study area were washed and smoked their milk containers for the purpose of improving flavor and increasing shelf life. Organoleptic and density test were the main methods of milk quality test. The weekly milk post-harvest losses for milk producers, vendors and cafeteria were 0.60%, 0.25% and 0.70% respectively. The main constraints of milk processing in the study area were lack of small scale processing equipment, low milk supply and poor milk quality. Among the milk handling practices conducted by milk vendors, sources of milk, types of milk containers and cleaning agents were significantly (p<0.05) associated with the age of the respondents.
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    FACTORS AFFECTING CONSUMERS’ CHOICE OF DAIRY PRODUCTS TYPE IN SENDAAFA TOWN
    (Mekelle University, 2024-02-28) Regasa Chala
    All consumers' of dairy products has his/her own products type choice. Dairy product type reflect confident factor affecting beforehand buying products. The objective of this study was to analyze the factors affecting consumers ‘choice of dairy product type in Sendafa town. The predicted variables involved in this research are dairy product type price, quality safety, promotion, nutritional value and product type availability; whereas product type choice is the dependent variable. So the aim of this work was to test consumers’ consume perception for several dairy products type (Raw milk, Pasteurized milk, yoghurt, Cottage cheese and butter) to evaluate the factors affecting consumers’ choice for dairy product type in study area. Relevant literatures have been reviewed in considering the idea and to find major factors that affect consumer dairy product type. Open questionnaires were distributed to nominated sample respondents by means of structured questionnaire and talk administered by the student to 350 consumers' the Committee housing units using dairy products. The respondent be located sampled based on simple random sampling and consumer were sampled using Committee housing units as this research, single housing unit symbolized single person technique. For Data analyzing through SPSS, Descriptive and multiple regression used. The results show that consumers’ using buying of dairy products increasing significantly for Raw milk and butter strongly and moderately for cheese and yoghurt and very low for pasteurized milk. So, raw milk and butter were found to be the furthermost chosen product type among encouraged dairy product type in study area. Respondents gender, age, marital status, income level and occupation status are found to be the demographic variables affecting consumers dairy product type considerably. Independent variable found as most factor affecting consumers choice of dairy product type significantly is price. Recommendations founding on the results from the research, for dairy products processor so as to make well and knowledgeable decisions that can be used to factor affect the approach of consumers make product type choice judgment. Dairy products pricing system, standards and regulation have to be regulated. Therefore, it is recommended that the administration of town has to inspire investors both manufacturers and sellers in the dairy sector to satisfy the increasing needs of society.
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    Assessment of Dairy Value Chain and Dairy Production Systems in Southern and South Eastern Zone, Tigray, Ethiopia
    (Mekelle University, 2024-07-21) Haftu Kahsay Gebrehiwot
    The purpose of this study was to assess dairy value chain and dairy production systems in selected districts from Southern and South Eastern Zone of Tigray. Primary data was collected by interviewing a total of 110 dairy producers in purposively selected in Mehoni and Hintalo districts. The collected data was analyzed using application of appropriate statistical tools and simple descriptive statistics was used to present the results. Majority of the respondents stated that the family size was small sized with 2 to 5 members. About 68 of the respondents head man occupation in the study areas was dairy farming. In the study areas, most owners had 2-5, 5-7, and 7-9 dairy cows respectively. The available land was mainly used for crop and pasture production. Respondents stated that the main purpose of keeping animals was to be used as asset and the reason to start dairy farm was for household food. In the present study, majority of the respondents mentioned that support by government was the main encouragement to start dairy farming. Manual churning using clay pot was the main churning system in the study areas. As mentioned by majority of the respondents raw milk was the main dairy product produced in the area. The main feed resource in the study area was hay followed by crop residue. The main water source for dairy production was water rain catchment. Development agents were the primary source of dairy products marketing in the study areas. About 38 of the respondents stated that raw milk was the primary dairy product consumed in the study areas. Majority of the respondents (56) stated that livestock/dairy potential was the main opportunity for dairy production in the study areas. Lack of credit, poor genetic potential, animal disease and high feed cost as well as availability problem were the main constraints in the study areas. The present study suggested that establishing of dairy producers should get credit support, extension and veterinary services