BY: NOXOLO DLAMINI

MANZINI – Pig farmers in Eswatini have been urged to stop mixing traditional leftovers, commonly known as “umhhungu,” with commercial pig feed. This caution was issued by Mncedisi Simelane, Technical Advisor at Feedmaster, during the second day of the Pig Production Workshop held at the Manzini Library, organised by the Ministry of Agriculture.

Simelane emphasized that feed quality is critical to the health and productivity of pigs. While supplementing feed with “umhhungu” may appear cost-effective, he warned that it could introduce harmful bacteria, disrupt nutritional balance, and hinder growth rates. Commercial pig feed, he explained, is scientifically formulated to meet the dietary needs of pigs at different growth stages, ensuring optimal health and maximum weight gain.

“Feeding pigs is an investment, not just a cost. If we cut corners, we compromise the quality of the meat and the profitability of our operations,” Simelane cautioned.

The practice of mixing “umhhungu” with commercial feed is widespread among farmers seeking to lower feeding costs. However, Simelane outlined several risks associated with this method:

• Digestive Problems: Leftovers can be inconsistent or spoiled, causing digestive issues.
• Poor Feed Conversion Rates: Pigs may fail to gain the expected weight despite consuming large amounts of food.
• Increased Disease Vulnerability: Leftovers may carry harmful pathogens, putting pigs at risk of illness.

Farmers learned about the benefits of using balanced feeds and how to calculate feed ratios to minimize costs without compromising quality. Attendees were encouraged to adhere to feeding programs tailored to their pigs’ age and production stages.

Beyond nutrition, the workshop addressed biosecurity and marketing strategies. Farmers were educated on disease prevention through clean and secure facilities. Marketing experts also shared tips on positioning their products for better profitability in competitive markets.

Participant discussions highlighted a shared commitment among farmers to adopt best practices. Many expressed gratitude for Simelane’s insights on feed quality, which challenged traditional practices that could hinder progress in the pig farming sector.