ALM UNDP

Summary:

The introduction of tropical sheep, as a new opportunity for farmers under mixed farming systems, is a step towards raising the level of productive efficiency of the traditional farming system. The establishment of sheep production systems that are efficient and sustainable would enhance household food security, generate some form of income to rural households, and offer some employment opportunities. This project is one of government’s top development priorities, being food security, and it aligns closely with one of the key outcomes of the Strategy for the Development of Samoa which aims at the enhancement of agriculture opportunities, as well as the Corporate Plan 2005-2008 of the Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries (MAF) which states: ‘To ensure that the supply of traditional foods and other primary products is adequate’. MAF has the capacity and capability to manage the project through its current resources and personnel in all vital areas for the success of the local sheep industry. Insofar, major achievements of the sheep project since its inception, and with reference to the objectives, include the adaptation of the tropical breed into Samoa’s local environment, distribution of breeding stock to farmers, and the establishment of the Samoa Sheep Farmers Association. Thus MAF envisages to make available sheep breeding stock for prospective farmers as well as cater for the high demand for more breeders and surplus rams for home consumption.