Constraints and Opportunities in Artificial Insemination and Oestrus Synchronization Service
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/ari.v4i2.7380Keywords:
Artificial Insemination, Cattle Productivity, Extension Services, Oestrus SynchronizationAbstract
This study investigated the challenges and opportunities associated with artificial insemination (AI) and oestrus synchronization (ES) services among cattle farmers in the Roma community in Lesotho. These reproductive technologies play a vital role in improving cattle genetics and productivity. However, their adoption remains limited in many developing regions. The study aimed to evaluate the availability, accessibility, affordability, and effectiveness of AI and ES services, as well as farmers’ perceptions, satisfaction levels, and the influence of extension support and training. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was used, involving 60 randomly selected cattle farmers from six villages. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests in SPSS version 20. The findings indicated that access to AI and ES services was generally low across all villages, with no significant differences in availability, affordability, or service frequency (p > 0.05). Farmers reported key challenges, including long travel distances to service providers, high costs, limited availability of skilled technicians, and delays in service delivery. Although AI services were slightly more accessible than ES, both were inconsistently provided. Farmers expressed neutral satisfaction regarding service quality and communication, but dissatisfaction with costs and delays. Extension services and training opportunities were minimal, leaving most farmers dependent on informal knowledge sources. Despite these constraints, farmers acknowledged the benefits of AI and ES and recommended improved access, reduced costs, increased training, and more skilled personnel, highlighting that strengthening institutional support is essential to enhance adoption and improve cattle productivity in the region.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Posane Slyvester Lebata, Nthabeleng Gloria Maroba, Monaheng Charles Patlo, Relebohile Philomena Phafoli, Mope Gerard Mokhoro
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