MIDLANDS STATE UNIVERSITY
FACULTY OF NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT AND AGRICULTURE
DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL AND WILDLIFE SCIENCES
NAME :
KUDZAI CLEMENCE TONONO
REGISTRATION NUMBER :
R199319J
PROGRAMME :
BSC IN ANIMAL AND WILDLIFE SCIENCES
LEVEL :
3.1
PLACEMENT :
FEEDMIX STOCK FEEDS Pvt Ltd
WORK SUPERVISOR :
VONGAISHE WHICHO
SUPERVISOR CELL :
0774330187
ACADEMIC SUPERVISOR :
LAWRENCE MASAKA
CONTACT DETAILS :
0787295033
MODE OF ENTRY :
CONVENTIONAL
PERIOD :
JANUARY 2022 – AUGUST 2022
THIS REPORT HAS BEEN PREPARED IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
HONORS IN ANIMAL AND WILDLIFE SCIENCES IN THE FACULTY OF NATURAL RESOURCES
MANAGEMENT AND AGRICULTURE.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Page 4
CHAPTER 1 – Executive summary
Page 5
CHAPTER 2 -Description of the organization
Page 6
CHAPTER 3 – Detailed description of activities
Page 12
CHAPTER 4 – Relationship between organization and degree programme
Page 34
CHAPTER 5 – Strength of degree programme
Page 35
CHAPTER 6 – Recommendations
Page 36
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DECLARATION
I KUDZAI CLEMENCE TONONO, hereby declare that this work-related learning report is fully a
result of my own work with exceptions to some parts of it including the references and
acknowledgements. The report has not been submitted in part or in full for any other degree to
any other academic institution.
Name of student
…………………………………………………….
Signature
……………………………………………………..
Date
……………………………………………………..
3
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.
First and foremost, I would like to thank the Almighty God for blessing my academic journey
and for guidance throughout my work-related learning period. I would also like to express my
appreciation and acknowledgement to Feedmix Pvt Ltd for giving me the opportunity to be part
of their team and get to gain knowledge that is valuable to my academic journey with special
thanks to Ms. Vongaishe Whicho ( Supervisor and Quality Assurer) for supporting me and
teaching me everything that I got to learn throughout my work-related learning period and for
ensuring that my experience at FeedMix directly relates to my work-related learning objectives
and course of study. I would also like to thank Mr. Gibson Gova and Mrs. Erica Nyamande who
is the technical sales manager. It is because of their patience in teaching me the work, guidance
and all the advice that they gave me that today I can confidently say my work-related learning
period was successful.
I further extend my gratitude to Ms. Hillary the HR manager and Mr. Trevor Volker the CEO for
facilitating my placement for work-related learning and lastly the Midlands State University
Staff in the faculty of Natural Resources Management and Agriculture for all their help during
my attachment.
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Chapter 1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report is written in partial fulfillment of my BSc honors in Animal and Wildlife Sciences
Work-related learning period at Feedmix Stock feeds Pvt Ltd from the 3rd of January 2022.The
report will mainly focus on several departments that the author was exposed to at Feedmix
that include Quality Assurance, Technical Sales, Raw Materials and Production departments.
The report will give detailed information and analysis of the main objectives of these
departments and also the important activities that make up each department i.e., with relation
to my course of study.
The student will also be able to show the relationship of the theoretical concepts learnt at
previous academic levels with the practical activities done by the student as part of his work
duties. Most importantly the report will be able to clearly answer the main objectives of the
work-related learning while showing the importance of industrial training in the academics.
This report also gives a detailed description of the organization i.e., looking at the various
activities for every department and showing their importance in the functioning of the
organization.
The student is expected to follow the following objectives:
•
•
•
•
•
To clearly describe the departments that he is exposed to.
To clearly describe and show the relationship between the various departments that he
is exposed to.
Give a clear picture of the role played by the Quality assurance department and the
Technical sales department (Technical Field Support).
To show the relationship between the organization’s activities and degree program.
To clearly show the strength of the degree program in relation to the exposed
departments.
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Chapter 2
DESCRIPTION OF THE ORGANIZATION
BACKGROUND
Feedmix Private Limited was established in the year 2008 and its main line of business
is the manufacturing of stock feeds that include poultry feeds, beef feeds, dairy feeds,
pig feeds etc. The company has managed to significantly grow in the past years in terms
of production, the range of products offered and also customer relations. As a result of
the quality of our products and services we have managed to create a reliable customer
circle and we continue to attract more and this mainly is because of departments such
as the premixes department that has allowed livestock farmers to cut down on costs by
using our premixes and also the formulation information and advice they acquire from
the Technical department.
Feedmix Pvt Ltd has departments that are all related and these include the Production
departments (Poultry, Beef and Dairy, Full fat), Quality Assurance, Technical Sales and
Marketing, Premixes, Treasury and Accounts departments. We source our raw
materials from outside Zimbabwe and also within Zimbabwe from our local suppliers.
Our international suppliers include China, South Africa, Zambia and Malawi. We are a
reliable stock feeds manufacturer that prioritizes the farmers business to ensure quality
returns.
FeedMix has a network of 36 branches nationwide to cater for all customer needs loyal
to the Feedmix quality. The company boasts of a reliable transport and logistics
department that allows our products to reach every branch that we have.
2.1 OUR PRODUCTS AND MARKET SPACE.
Our main products include:
Layers
Broilers
Early layers mash ( 19 – 64weeks)
Broiler starter crumbs
Standard layers mash 14.8% CP
Broiler grower pellets
Layer Concentrate
Broiler finisher pellets
Pullet starter crumbs – 20% CP (0 – 8weeks)
Broiler finisher concentrate
Pullet grower mash 15% CP (9 – 16weeks)
Late lay mash ( + 65 weeks) 14.1% CP
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Road runners
Road runner starter mash
Road runner grower/finisher mash
Road runner layer breeder mash
Pig feeds
Beef range
Pig creep weaner meal
Pen feeding meal 12.10% CP
Pig grower meal
Beef survival meal 9.15% CP
Pig dry sow and boar meal
Bull and Heifer meal 9.50% CP
Pig sow lactating meal
Bull maintenance meal 9.50% CP
Calf starter meal
18% CP
Calf grower meal
Dry cow meal
1:4 Beef concentrate
Winter Protein supplementary block
Dairy range
Dairy meal 18% MAXIMILK
Dairy meal 16%
Calf grower meal
Dairy meal (Pasture balancer) 17%
Calf starter meal
Dry cow meal
Sheep and Goat
Dog
Lamb fattening meal (13% CP)
Dog nuggets
FeedMix Goat meal (12% CP)
Dog meal
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2.2 MAIN ACTIVITIES
• Stock feed Production (straight feeds)
• Technical sales and support to farmers and customers.
• Premixes – concentrates that are a mix of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, feed
additives and other trace elements that can be used for feed production in both
Micro packs and Macro packs.
• Suppliers of day-old chicks that are delivered from our broiler breeder partners on a
daily basis.
• Supply of poultry vaccines and some medications.
2.3 MAJOR CLIENTS
• Masvingo Chicks
• Hukuru Chicks
• Dairy board Zimbabwe Ltd
• Dendairy
• Charles Steward
• Midway farm
• Zimbabwe Association of Dairy Farmers
2.4 STRATEGIES
• High quality products and service.
2.5 VISION
• To provide QUALITY animal solutions to our Zimbabwean Customers.
2.6 MISSION
• Provide CUSTOMER CARE which exceeds customers’ expectations.
• Produce HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS using up to date formulations.
• Remain PROFESSIONAL in ALL aspects of conducting business.
• Build SUSTAINABLE LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIPS with our customers, suppliers and
stakeholders.
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2.7 CORE VALUES
• Accountability
• Honesty
• Integrity
• Transparency
2.8 FEEDMIX ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
CEO
HRM
ACCOUNTS
COO
TREASURY
TECHNICAL
SALES
CPO
PRODUCTION
QUALITY
ASSURANCE
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2.9 FUNCTIONAL DIVISIONS AT FEEDMIX
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•
•
•
•
Chairperson
Administrator
Technical sales manager
Quality assurer
General staff
a. Role of the Chairperson
• To lead and direct the board in all company meetings.
• Lead the board in the formulation of vital company strategies that are important in the
company’s growth.
• To facilitate and maintain communication with all stakeholders involved.
• To foresee the annual review of all board members terms in office.
b. Role of the Administrator
• To take care of the Human Resources department that sees the hiring of staff and also
their dismissal.
• To ensure workers’ rights and contracts are respected and followed through.
• General office management.
c. Role of the Technical Sales
• To create new relationships with potential customers and maintain existing ones.
• To maintain and create a strong brand for the company.
• To ensure that we produce and offer exactly what the customer and target market
want.
• To ensure that the quality of feed is exactly what the farmer is looking for.
d. Role of Quality Assurer
• To test the final feed products and ensure they meet all the target nutritional
requirements in terms of moisture, protein content and other nutrients.
• To test all raw materials before they are accepted by the company to ensure that they
meet the exact nutritional and moisture targets that we can use in our productions.
• To accept and reject all produced feed and raw materials depending on their quality.
• To perform necessary scientific tests and procedures so as to clearly determine the
safety and quality of our feeds.
e. General staff
• To work in the various factory departments in all manufacturing and maintenance
activities.
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WHAT IS EXPECTED FROM THE DEGREE PROGRAMME.
As a BSc Animal and Wildlife Sciences student, I am expected to do my Work-Related Learning
during my third year by the Midlands State University at an institution or organization that has
a direct link/relationship with my course of study. The main purpose for this period is for
students to be exposed to a more practical side of the programme while dealing with real-work
problems and activities so as to create an academic with both theoretical and practical
knowledge and experience.
The student is expected to:
•
Directly relate his theoretical knowhow with the gained practical experience.
•
Develop a more logical but scientific approach to Animal Sciences as a programme.
•
Show how important work-related learning is.
•
Actively participate in practical and field activities that relate to the course of study.
•
Knowledge on management of technical field issues/aspects.
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Chapter 3
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ACTIVITIES
QUALITY ASSURANCE
The student is attached at Feedmix Stock Feeds (Pvt) Ltd located at 524 Cleveland, Mutare
Road, Msasa, Harare. He reports to supervisors from the two main departments he is exposed
to, Quality assurance department and Technical support.
Quality Assurers Responsibilities.
•
•
•
•
To test the final feed products and ensure they meet all the target nutritional
requirements in terms of moisture, protein content and other nutrients.
To test all raw materials before they are accepted by the company to ensure that they
meet the exact nutritional and moisture targets that we can use in our productions.
To accept and reject all produced feed and raw materials depending on their quality.
To perform necessary scientific tests and procedures so as to clearly determine the
safety and quality of our feeds.
MAIN ACTIVITIES DONE BY THE STUDENT.
3.1 ANALYSIS OF STOCKFEEDS AND RAW MATERIALS.
Stock feeds and raw materials analysis is done using the Near-Infra Red Spectroscopy that
determines important nutrient composition in their percentage quantities and also the
moisture content of each.
The near-Infra Red determines the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Crude Protein
Moisture content
Ash
Calcium
Phosphorus
Fat
Potassium and other trace elements;
This shows the quantities of each component in their percentages and from these results we
get to compare with set targets in the system and this helps in making decisions of whether the
feed product is safe for animal consumption or the feed is to be rejected because it does not
meet the required nutritional value. The same applies for raw materials, if the protein content
is very low then it is rejected on the basis that there is not enough nutritional gain.
12
A sample was collected from every batch produced and this sample was tested using the NIR
machine to determine its nutritional composition.
A 200g sample is weighed on a scale and then it is sieved using sieve sizes:
•
•
•
•
Collecting pan (collects fines)
1mm sieve
2mm sieve
3.5mm sieve
These sieves separate the feed according to its sizes and this helps us to be able to know how
much of the feed is useful to it and also the Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR). From this
information we get to also analyze using a normal distribution curve that represents the feed
in its different sizes and the total percentage that the animals can utilize efficiently.
This information is recorded in a Process Control Document that basically shows information
relating to the product such as protein and moisture content, sieve results, steam
temperatures used in production etc.
Raw materials analysis also involved the analysis if important raw materials such as soya meal,
soya beans, maize bran etc. For maize bran we also had to determine its density so as to decide
whether in can be used for Dairy meal (Pasture balancer-17%) since pasture balancer has to be
a bit heavy as a result the maize brans density has to be higher.
For pasture balance maize bran quality test, the student used a 250ml measuring cylinder and
it would be filled with the maize bran sample and compressed. The net weight is then recorded
and the density is calculated by dividing the net mass of the maize bran by the cylinders
capacity (volume). Density = net mass / cylinder capacity.
CRUMBS AND PELLETS RECOMMENDED SIZES
FEED TYPE
SIZE (DIAMETER)
SIZE (LENGTH)
Broiler Starter Crumbs
1.5mm – 3.0mm
1.0mm – 3.0mm
Broiler Grower Pellets
3.0mm
3.0mm – 5mm
Broiler Finisher Pellets
4.0mm
4.0mm – 10.0mm
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SIEVES USED
NIR MACHINE
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FEED CONSUMPTION NORMAL DISTRIBUTION CURVE FROM CHICK TO MATURE BIRD
Sieve 3.5mm = 10.34%
Sieve 2.0mm = 85.24%
Sieve 1.0mm=4.01%
An investigation into feed consumption in relation to particle sizes in Broiler Starter Crumbs,
Broiler Grower Pellets and Broiler Finisher Pellets was conducted so as to determine the
percentage of feed that the bird actually utilizes from a random sample. This would help in
advising the production department on how to cut their crumbs and pellets to a size that allows
maximum consumption.
To achieve this, we used our sieves of 3.5mm,2.0mm,1.0mm and the pan. The results were
recorded as a percentage and used to formulate the above curve. A normally distributed curve
should be achieved and this means that the finer constituents of the feed and the bigger feed
particles should be less and occupy the lesser percentage on the curve while the medium sized
feed particles that the bird can feed on effectively should be more and this is what we achieved
with our Broiler Starter Crumbs.
This investigation was carried out on a monthly basis to ensure we are maintaining a good
quality product.
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3.1.1 RAW MATERIALS AND STORAGE
As an organization we sourced our raw materials from different suppliers both local suppliers
and international suppliers. Raw materials included white maize, soya beans, soya meal,
sunflower meal and cake, vitamins and minerals etc. Before these were accepted in and
approved for use in production, they were first tested to ensure the main components required
were available in their correct quantities for example protein levels in soya beans and soya
meal were correct and if white maize had the correct moisture quantity of 12%.
In addition to this we ensured that the raw materials were stored correctly i.e., they were
protected from rain and also rodents. Storage is very important as it contributes to the quality
of product that we produce. The raw material has the potential to affect the finished product
density in a significant way.
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3.2 MYCOTOXINS ANALYSIS.
Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites that are produced by micro fungi and are capable of
causing disease and death in this case livestock and even humans. Mycotoxins may lead to a
reduced rate of production, low raw materials quality in terms of nutrition and possible damage
of vital organs. We tested for 6 mycotoxins using a mycomaster machine that employs the use
of reader lenses and also sample strips unique to each mycotoxin test.
The 6 main mycotoxins are:
•
•
•
•
•
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Aflatoxin
Fumonisin
Zearalenone
Ochratoxin
T-2
HT2
With this method, we managed to test for a number of raw materials and finished feeds to
determine their safety when it comes to mycotoxins before the feed is dispatched.
Even though mycotoxin test were done for both finished feeds and raw materials, most of these
were done on finisher breeder feeds which included Broiler breeder layer mash 1 & 2, Broiler
breeder grower pellets and Broiler breeder starter pellets and crumbs since breeder farmers
are very specific and particular and also broiler breeders are sensitive to a number of things.
Mycotoxin tests were also done for raw materials so as to determine the safety of raw
materials procured by the organization. It was the Quality assurance duty to ensure that the
organization used safe and high-quality raw materials safe for livestock.
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MYCOMASTER FOR MYCOTOXIN TESTS
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3.3 TEST FOR SALMONELLA
Salmonella is an infection with the bacteria Salmonella spp that affects most animal species
that includes livestock and even humans. In poultry it can lead to increased mortality, intestinal
bleeding, diarrhea and low egg production. Salmonella infection may even lead to cannibalism
with layer birds.
The Compact Dry SL (For Salmonella) test was done to determine the presence of salmonella in
both finished feeds and raw materials. The Compact Dry SL is a simple dry culture medium that
detects the existence of Salmonella qualitatively based on its specific character, such as
biochemical reactivity and motility. This process uses a two-step enrichment procedure and the
screening with Compact Dry SL is possible within 3days.
This starts with the preparation of Buffered Peptone Water (BPW) which is an ISO certified nonselective medium for the isolation of Salmonella species from food samples and other
associated samples. It pre-enriches injured salmonella species form foods prior to selective
enrichment and isolation.
It is prepared by suspending 20g in 1000ml of distilled water and is allowed to dissolve
completely. It is then sterilized by autoclaving at 120°C for 15minutes.
Next, we prepared the Rappaport Vassiliadis Soya Broth (RVS) which is a growth medium for
secondary, selective enrichment of Salmonella in feedstuffs. 26.75g of the powder is suspended
in 1 liter of distilled or deionized water. This and other instruments are wrapped in foil paper
and sterilized by autoclaving at 120 °C for 15minutes.
The process was done over 3 days and in 3 stages. First, the specimen was prepared and
incubated at 37°C for 20hours.Next,0.1ml of the pre-enrichment was transferred in 10ml of the
RVS broth and incubated at 41.5°C for 24 hours. 0.1ml of enriched specimen is then dropped on
the dry sheet and then1ml of sterilized water is added on the opposite side of the dry sheet and
then the plate is incubated at 41-43°C for 20-24 hours.
If the test is Positive for Salmonella, black to green isolated or fused colonies are observed and
but if a large quantity is present the whole plate turns yellow. If the test is Negative for
Salmonella, no black or green colonies are observed and there is jot color change to yellow. We
managed to have only 2 samples of Wheat bran from a supplier that tested positive for
salmonella otherwise the rest would test positive due to the biosecurity measures we had.
The main objective of this experiment was to ensure that we were producing safe stock feeds
for our livestock particularly poultry feeds since this can be dangerous to them in that layer may
start cannibalism if there is salmonella present and this greatly affects production resulting in
loses.
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The following images show some of the stages and equipment in Salmonella analysis:
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3.3.1 TOTAL BACTERIA COUNT
Total bacteria count is done so as to determine the number of available micro-organisms within
a feed or raw material sample and it includes all pathogens and non-pathogens and is used to
determine the hygienic status of produced feed. The Compact Dry TC is a ready to use
chromogenic plate for the detection of total count and can detect up to 300 colonies of microorganisms per plate. Total count can be done in Water or liquid foodstuffs, Solid foodstuffs
and Swab test specimen.
Total bacteria count is important because the total number of micro-organisms should not
exceed a specified level and these depend on the different type of foods.
As a stock feed manufacturer, we did the viable count in solid food stuffs, where we added a
buffer solution to the sample and used a stomacher to homogenize. I then dropped 1ml of the
specimen in the middle of the dry sheep. The compact dry plate is then incubated at 35 ± 2°C
for 48 ± 3 hours. The resulting colonies that develop are all red and other colored colonies may
develop altogether.
The above image shows a Compact Dry TC.
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3.4 INVESTIGATIONS ON THE LAYING PERCENTAGE OF HYLINE LAYERS
We conducted investigations over some period of time for the reasons why some farmers were
not achieving the expected laying percentage from their hy-line layers. This came as a result of
some farmers who raised the issue of low laying percentages during one of our technical
support workshops. This was aimed at finding out:
•
•
•
If we as a company were not producing feed capable of achieving the expected results
If the farmers were doing something wrong that affected their layers.
Solutions to the low percentages that some of the farmers were experiencing.
To achieve this, we had to visit some farmers who are into egg production at their farms to
assess the situation.
We had to find out:
•
•
•
•
•
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The feed that they were using.
The age of the birds.
If they were using straight finished feeds or mixing on their own using concentrates.
The quantity of feed that was being given per bird.
If the birds had been completely vaccinated.
The general things such as housing, cleanliness of feeders and drinkers etc.
This was the basis of our investigation.
One bird was requested from each of the 3 farmers investigated for an investigation that
involved opening up the bird to see the internal status of the bird mainly along the ovaries. We
wanted to see if there was any fat accumulation inside the bird with great interest on fat
accumulation on the ovaries and other vital organs such as the liver. Fat accumulation on the
ovaries of layer birds greatly results in a reduction in laying percentage. From the 3 birds, the
ovaries were in good condition and still producing except for fat accumulation that had
occurred.
This fat distribution and accumulation was attributed to improper feeding by some of the
farmers in the form of over-feeding. Overfeeding results in more of the feed being given to the
animal but not being able to utilize all of it at the same time thus fat accumulation and lowering
of the laying percentage.
Looking at the housing for the layers, we also concluded that there was lack of exercise for the
birds since most of them were confined to a small space and were not able to burn out the
accumulating fat and this was evidenced by how the birds were oddly heavy for a layer bird.
We therefore concluded that the feed supplied was in great quality but the farmers care of the
birds had to be improved. A month later, another investigation was done and there was a
significant improvement on the laying percentage.
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Please find attached some images showing the opening of the bird to investigate the inside
state:
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3.5 CLIENT CALLS FOR HELP WITH INFECTIOUS CORYZA
Infectious coryza is respiratory disease that affects poultry i.e., chickens only and is caused by
the bacterium Avibacterium paragallinarum. It is characterized nasal discharge, facial swelling,
sneezing, birds become less active etc. Infectious coryza is primarily transmitted from bird to
bird through direct contact and also since it is a respiratory disease, birds may get it through
breathing airborne bacteria. Some birds may get coryza through eating food or drinking water
that is contaminated with the bacteria.
The technical department received a number of calls from poultry farmers who had birds with
infectious coryza and we advised them to:
•
•
•
•
Bacterial drugs such as Astrisul, ESB3, Ashoxy and Oxytetracycline.
Practice good sanitation.
Have a strict and solid Biosecurity strategy.
Vaccinate all birds that are introduced either as replacements or as new batches.
The following images show severe infectious coryza from one of the farmers:
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The following images show some of the birds affected by INFECTIOUS CORYZA and the
extent to which they were affected:
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3.6 INVESTIGATION OF THE STRENGTH OF PELLETS (PDI)
Pellet strength is an important factor in the production of broiler pelletized feeds which
include Broiler Grower Pellets and Broiler Finisher Pellets. The strength of the pellets
determines their storage life before use and also determines their usefulness in-relation to
method of feeding. Some large-scale commercial farmers feed their birds through
broadcasting the feed on the floor and this is when pellet strength proves its importance as
we need stronger pellets to survive and we have maximum feeding.
As feed fines increase, there is more of feed wastage, low feed conversion ratios and low
palatability of feed. As a result of fines not being palatable, they create waste and there is
feed loss.
Pellet strength is measured using the pellet durability test machine and then calculated by
expressing it as a percentage. We would first sieve the pelletized feed using a 3.5mm sieve
and then weigh 300g from the sieved sample. The weighed sample is then put inside the
pellet durability test machine and 5 nuts added to provide a force against the pellets. The
machine then rotates 135 times and we take out the sample and sieve it again using the
3.5mm sieve. The remaining mass is then expressed as a percentage of the 300g initially
weighed.
During the first 2 months of my work-related learning our PDI for grower pellets ranged
from 50% - 55% and our finisher pellets ranged from between 52% - 56%. The slight
difference between the two was because of the pellet sizes, with grower pellets being
smaller than finisher pellets.
However, a number of factors affected the strength of the pellets and these included:
•
•
•
The amount of steam used in the production of the pellets which had a great effect
of the strength of the feed.
The length of the pellets in millimeters.
The availability of a pellet binder.
Pellet binders are pellet performance enhancers that serve the purpose of holding together the
various feed constituents so as to maintain a good pellet integrity after the final production.
Pellet binders are very important as they play a role in pellet quality in terms of strength,
meaning that pellets can stay intact for a long time post production without being mechanically
damaged.
So, once the feed is mixed and exposed to enough moisture and heat, the pellet binder binds
particles together and forms a 3-D structure that increases pellet durability due to the binding.
A strong and durable pellet is created during mixing and conditioning when steam and moisture
are added so as to enhance the pelleting process and this causes the moisture to be absorbed
by the feed raw materials which swell up and then cool to create a strong pellet.
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For our experiment we used the KEMBIND Maxi Dry pellet binder which is a highly effective,
low inclusion pellet binder with stabilizing and thickening properties. It causes polymerization
reactions to occur which then result in the gelatinization of starch and finally produces a strong
adhesive bond between feed components.
Using our 2-tonne feed mixer, we first added 2kg of Kem bind pellet binder but we could not
reach our target of 90% strength. We then added 4kg of the pellet binder into 2 tonnes of feed
and managed to reach our target.
PELLET DURABILITY TEST MACHINE
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3.7 WORKSHOPS AND FIELD DAYS
After every other month we would conduct workshops and field days in selected areas were
most of our clients are located. The main aim of these workshops was to keep in touch with
existing clients and farmers including potential ones by providing technical advice and
education for free on matters related to animal nutrition, animal health and general
management of livestock as a business with a bias to the range of products that we provide I.e.,
poultry, piggery beef, dairy etc. These workshops were facilitated by the technical sales
department.
We would educate farmers on how to prevent losses through proper management that
involves following the proper vaccination programmes of different livestock to prevent diseases
that may occur later.
We also provided them with valuable information on the most common diseases that affect
poultry, beef, dairy animals and how they can be prevented through simple biosecurity
measures, vaccinations and medications that can treat the diseases.
Issues on feed formulation and feeding programmes were also discussed and these included
cost-effective self-formulation advices that would help farmers especially poultry farmers in
cutting down on costs while maintaining a good growth progress and quality of produce. This
was mainly based on the use of premixes to formulate feeds that the farmers could use and we
as a company manufacture the premixes as a result this was a benefit to them as we would
provide formulations with raw material and premixes quantities that would produce the feed
required.
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3.8 BUSINESS FINDING MISSIONS
During the work-related learning period, the student got to learn that one of a technical sales
representatives’ duties was to find business for the company. This was achieved through the
use of scientifically backed strategies that were used to try and convince the farmer to join us
and use our stock feeds. Here, we would explain how our stock feeds were practically better in
terms of nutritional value i.e., accurate quantities of nutritional components such as crude
protein, calcium, crude fiber, phosphorus and other trace elements.
The farmer is only concerned about growth and quality of produce while keeping in mind the
economics part of the I.e., project. As a result, we also had a duty to be economically friendly to
the potential customer. Since business finding missions were only done to large scale farmers
who were commercial, we would propose to them better payment options for their purchases.
The payment options included creating purchase accounts for large purchases and this meant
that from the account they would benefit discounts depending on the number of tonnes
purchased and this helped the framers to cut down on costs.
We also provided them with an option for the production of customized feed specifically for
them. This type of feed included the addition of extra minerals and nutrients such as the
addition of CTC and Aivlosin which are added to feeds such as early layer mash. This growth
boosters were definite factors that could draw new clients and customers to us.
One example of a business finding mission was in Goromonzi district at Farmer Jays poultry
(broiler) farm and abattoir where the student and his technical sales supervisor wanted to
convince them to join Feedmix stock feeds so that we supply them with their 3-phase feeds
that are Broiler starter crumbs, Broiler grower pellets and Broiler finisher pellets. The mission
was a success as we proved we can supply them since they had a capacity of 250 000 birds at a
time.
So, from all this, a technical sales representative sells the company and creates relations with
new and potential customers using scientifically and economically backed strategies.
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3.9 FARMER CALLS AND COMPLAINTS ATTENDED TO BY THE TECHNICAL DEPARTMENT.
3.9.1 PIG DEATH IN ACTURAS.
A farmer who used our pig lactating concentrate feed for his pigs complained that his pigs were
dying and suspected that our feed was responsible for these mortalities. This was an
investigative case for us since we had to find the real cause before accepting any responsibility.
We had to visit the farmer and he had a total of 650 pigs at his farm. We requested to see the
feed that he was using at that moment and the feed that he bought from us and he had used all
of it. The farmer was self-formulating the feed and surprisingly he was using the wrong soya
meal which was also to course.
Further into the investigation we discovered that the pigs developed scours right before they
started dying and this to us was the real cause. Pig scours are a result of unclean conditions for
and around the pigs and this surely leads to pig mortality.
In conclusion the farmer was not compensated but rather advised and educated on the proper
management of his pig sty and how important cleaning was.
3.9.2 CANNIBALISM IN LAYERS
Cannibalism is deadly problem in poultry particularly layers that develops due to poor
management practices and stress on the birds. Limited spacing and poor lighting are some of
the causes of cannibalism in birds but it could also be a natural thing when some birds just want
to dominate the others.
We had a farmer who was worried about this and we visited the farm and realized that there
were a number of problems that included limited space per bird. We therefore advised the
farmer to improve brooder spacing per bird. We also encouraged the farmer to feed the birds
with properly formulated feeds that are balanced and are not lacking in any component
especially calcium and protein since feed with lower that required amounts of protein may lead
to cannibalism.
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INVESTIGATION ON EGG QUALITY
The Technical department received clients call from a Hy-Line Brown layer farmer with
problems in egg quality. The main problems the farmer was facing were white banded eggs
with white shells and eggs that had blood spots on their yorks and they suspected that it could
be a nutritional problem from our feeds.
Normal laying birds should produce eggs that have a golden-brown shell and a deep yellow York
and these are the two parameters in which egg quality is measured on. A single egg should have
about 32% as the York,58% as the egg white and 10% as the egg shell and this is another egg
quality parameter.
White banded eggs, white shelled eggs and blood spots inside eggs are a result of stressors
within and surrounding the flock and these may be in caged flocks where the stocking density is
high and other stressors that may affect egg quality are noise and a lot of heat. White banded
eggs may also be a result of changes in lighting hours and diseases such as Infectious bronchitis
and New Castle disease.
From our investigation we concluded that the farmer had a high stocking density of about 13 –
14 birds per square metre where as we recommend at most 10 birds per square meter. This
possibly was a cause for the white banded eggs and white shelled eggs. We also realized that
there was poor lighting for the birds and no lighting programme. A total of 16 hours of light
should be achieved once they are fully mature and have reached laying age.
In conclusion we urged the farmer to create an effective lighting programme and to avoid
stressors and also have a normal flocking density. Regular vaccinations are also encouraged.
Blood spots on egg
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White banded egg
White shelled egg
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3.9.3 OUTBREAK OF JANUARY DISEASE IN GOROMONZI-BROMELY AREA:
January disease or Theileriosis is a livestock disease transmitted by ticks and caused by a
parasite Theileria parva and affects cattle. As a result of high rainfall activity within the month
of January, Theileriosis occurs mostly in the month of January. It is characterized by fever
leading to week animals. It is also characterized by massive swelling of lymph nodes, nasal
discharge, discharge from the eyes, reduced feeding/grazing and may eventually lead to death.
The Technical department also attended to a call for help from one farmer who is a client in
Bromley first obtained the history of the animal and observed the animal with main interest in
the signs and symptoms. We observed some weak animals, animals showing signs of fever and
then swollen lymph nodes and this directly pointed to January disease.
We encouraged the farmer to:
•
•
•
•
Treat using Buparvaquone and tetracycline.
Control the vector (ticks) through dipping and developing a strict dipping program.
Regularly apply tick grease on the animals sensitive areas such as ears, tail area and
reproductive organs area.
Avoid movement of animals that are tick infested as this is dangerous.
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Chapter 4
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE ORGANISATIONS ACTIVITIES AND THE DEGREE PROGRAMME.
There was a direct relationship between the organizations activities that the student was
exposed to and the degree programme being studied and this is evidenced by how the student
got a deep understanding of the importance of each activity to livestock production as a
business by dwelling much on the quality of stock feeds and raw material. Since the programme
creates technical sales representatives, the organization developed good interpersonal skills
that are important in case investigations. Below, you will find the relationship per module
learnt before the work-related learning period:
The student gained a lot of understanding and knowledge that was directly linked to Animal
Health modules through activities in the form of customer reports that we attended to. Clients
would make a report when their animals were showing signs of deteriorating health such as
when they would report signs of infectious coryza and the technical department would chip in
and help prevent losses. Identification of swollen lymph nodes in cattle in the diagnosis of
Theileriosis fulfilled Animal physiology courses the student learnt before attachment.
As a stock feeds manufacturer, the student gained a greater experience in Animal Nutrition
related courses and these mainly covered the importance of good nutrition for healthy livestock
and better returns. Starting from the manufacturing of the stock feed from reliable feed
formulas to the testing of feed to make sure all important nutritional components were
available in their correct quantities and to testing for foreign things such as mycotoxins and
other bacteria, the student got to understand and grasp the most important principles of
animal nutrition which are very important for good production.
The organization through its technical sales department got to validate the students knowledge
on the economics part of the programme through practical exposure to modules such as
Introduction to agricultural economics and Business management as the student went on
business finding missions for the company that were based on both scientific and economic
strategies and as a result there was a direct relationship between the degree programme and
the organizations activities.
In addition, Microbiology modules had a direct relationship with the organization in that
microbiology tests for Mycotoxins, Salmonella and Total bacteria counts were conducted to
ensure the feeds safety and protect livestock from problems such as internal bleedings and
cannibalism as a result there was a direct relationship between the organizations activities and
the degree program.
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Chapter 5
STRENGTH OF DEGREE PROGRAM
The department of Animal and Wildlife Sciences in the faculty of Natural Resources
Management and Agriculture provides a strong understanding and appreciation of the most
important aspects of animal production as a science and as a business through deep Animal
nutrition and Animal Health courses that create a more practical but knowledge-rich student
who can easily apply theoretical understanding in practical such as being able to help the
farmer with whatever problem that they report and to also strategize and come up with
innovative ways for animal production.
Furthermore, it allows the student to appreciate the importance of wildlife management
through understanding of the most important Conservation and Ecology Concepts as a result
the programme plays a more holistic role in the creation of an animal scientist with great
appreciation of both livestock and wildlife management and protection.
Since the student has limited practical exposure, the work-related learning period offered
allowed the student to share some of the most updated information to the farmers which is a
great benefit to farmers and the organization.
STUDY AREAS THAT NEED REDRESSING
The department of Animal and Wildlife Sciences is a department rich in courses that cover the
whole animal production and conservation fields in a way that allows practical involvement in
the services offered, however, there are a number of areas that require redressing such as the
Animal Nutrition courses. I believe that there should be more practicals that explain the
relationship between nutrition and health of animals.
I also urge the faculty to develop courses that are more biased to Animal Nutrition so as to have
students/individuals that have a stronger understanding of livestock production by
understanding the nutritional requirements, being able to come up with ways to grow livestock
by using customized feeding programmes and feed formulation strategies that are cost efficient
since the whole point of livestock production is to make profit. As a result, having students who
study towards Animal Nutrition and Technology is beneficial to the livestock production
industry since nutrition alongside health are the backbones of livestock production.
Also, the faculty may try and expose students more on the practical side of animal nutrition by
having self-feed formulation practicals for the available animals in the faculty so as to get a
hands-on approach and understanding of animal nutritional requirements in their correct
quantities.
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OPPORTUNITIES OFFERED.
Opportunities offered include Animal Nutrition specialists as Animal nutritionists, Technical
sales representatives that act as a support to farmers in terms of animal production in all its
disciplines. The course also leads to opportunities in Animal health and veterinary services with
a relationship with Animal breeding and lastly the economic part which is business
management in livestock production that includes all the other courses.
SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE IMPROVEMENTS
In as much as the department of Animal and wildlife sciences in the faculty of Natural resources
management and agriculture offers courses that cover animal science in all its courses such as
Animal health, Nutrition, Business etc. I would suggest an improvement on practicals done on
campus mainly in animal nutrition where there a very few practicals done, it would be better to
have practicals that are directly linked to Animal science as a career and these may be in the
form of feed formulation practicals on campus and even exposure to the Technical sales rep
department which the students are not exposed to. As a result, all this may help and prepare
the student for work-related learning and post completion of studies. This may be achieved
through contact with organizations providing such services and working together in creating a
student with an appreciation of the important activities currently being done by an Animal
scientist.
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Chapter 6
RECOMMENDATIONS
From the work-related learning period, it is safe to say that as a student there are a few
recommendations that can be passed and may be helpful in strengthening Animal Science as a
major and make the students more appealing.
Firstly, I would recommend that there be an introduction of biosecurity in livestock production
as a compulsory module on its own. Biosecurity refers to the measures that are used to avoid
the introduction and spread of diseases and disease-causing organisms within our livestock and
mainly in poultry. Biosecurity is a very important aspect of poultry production and failure to
appreciate its importance as a livestock farmer and producer may lead to losses through the
outbreak of diseases and infections that affect livestock at a faster rate.So,the appreciation of
the structural, conceptual and procedural biosecurity measures would be helpful to students
with a great interest in animal health, hands on animal production, animal nutrition etc. and
with this you create a more holistic scientist.
A stronger appreciation of land use and land use management is another important
recommendation that addresses the importance of using the available land for maximum
production for example in poultry production which requires being able to efficiently plan.
etc. department should improve on the laboratory facilities and develop a livestock and
livestock biotechnology hub that enforces the research of new and improved ways and
strategies that can be used in livestock production and are appealing to the majority of farmers.
A research hub would ensure that there is up to date information on all the technologies
available within the industry and how we can improve on them.
Lastly, it should be mandatory for all students doing their work-related learning to be exposed
to at least two branches of Animal sciences for example Animal nutrition and Animal health and
maybe Farm management and Wildlife management. This may be done by allowing students to
share their allocated time between the two if possible as this is helpful in creating a student
with a practical appreciation of more than one field and this will also help upon completion of
studies.
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ABBREVIATIONS
C.P - CRUDE PROTEIN
NIR - NEAR-INFRA RED
CEO - CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
FCR - FEED CONVERSION RATIO
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REFERENCES
Jones, C., Harrison, O. (2021) Salmonella in livestock feed. K-State Research Extension: Kansas
State University.
Radcliff, J. (2006) Microorganism control: Feed processing and quality control. Int Marketing:
Singapore.
Butcher, G., Miles, R.D. (1995) Minimizing microbial contamination in poultry feed. University of
Florida Cooperative Extension: Florida.
Miladinovic, D., Sorensen, M., Svihus, B. (2013) Strength and durability of feed pellets influenced
by different particle size distribution. Norwegian University of life science: Norway.
Davis, M.A. (2001) Poultry disease manual. Texas University: Texas.
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