Research Article
Enhancing Nutritional Characteristics of Maize Stover through Use of Targeted Additives for Sustainable Animal Production
Samuel Kodani, Charity Kunaka, Jessica Dzidzai Chikwiramakomo, Charmaine Sungwa, Claid Mujaju, Dumisani Kutywayo, Mutenga T, Manyau G, Tafadzwa Arnold Kadye
Middle East Research Journal of Agriculture and Food Science; 33-45.
https://doi.org/10.36348/merjafs.2026.v06i03.001
The study focused on enhancing the feeding value of crop residues through the use of additives for sustainable smallholder feed production. Maize stover was selected due to its abundance and potential to support livestock production in resource-limited communities. The residues were subjected to various treatments including adding urea and molasses aimed at improving their nutritive composition, digestibility, and preservation quality. Results revealed that urea and urea–molasses treatments significantly increased crude protein levels while reducing fiber content, thereby improving the overall nutritional profile. The combined urea–molasses treatment yielded the best balance between nutrient enhancement, palatability, and long-term storage stability. The findings underscore the potential of additive treatments as cost-effective strategies for transforming low-value crop residues into nutritionally improved feed resources. This approach promotes sustainable livestock feed production and supports food security efforts under Zimbabwean smallholder farming systems. It also supports the country’s Vision 2030, from where the country is poised to be a middle income economy by then.
Research Article
Agricultural Practices in Cooch Behar District of West Bengal: An Analytical Study
Ram Krishna Manda
Middle East Research Journal of Agriculture and Food Science; 46-54.
https://doi.org/10.36348/merjafs.2026.v06i03.002
Agriculture is the main livelihood option for the majority of the population in the Cooch Behar district of West Bengal. The agro-ecological conditions are favourable for diversified crop production but soil degradation, low land ownership, river erosion and poor infrastructure are some of the major constraints to agricultural development that remain in the district despite its rich fertile alluvial soil resource base and satisfactory rainfall. This paper provides an analytical description of the agro-climatic conditions, cropping patterns, irrigation system, technology uses, institutional supports, and sustainability issues of agricultural practices in the Cooch Behar district. The paper reviews the empirical and secondary data available in the libraries such as government report, research journals etc. to study the structure of the agriculture sector in Cooch Behar and to explore constraints on productivity and sustainability. The paper concludes with recommendations for policies that will promote climate-resilient, sustainable and inclusive agricultural development.
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