Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 1
ECONOMIC PRODUCTION OF SMALL RUMINANTS
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ECONOMIC PRODUCTION OF SMALL RUMINANTS
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Ghana app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: Agricultural Science
Class: SHS 1
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 15
Grade code: 2.2.2.LI.3
Strand code: 2
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 2.2.2.CS.1
Indicator code: 2.2.2.LI.3
Theme: FARMING FOR JOBS AND INCOMES
Subtheme: ECONOMIC PRODUCTION OF SMALL RUMINANTS
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In Ghana, raising small ruminants like goats and sheep is more than just farming; it's a vital part of our economy and culture. From the lively sales during Eid al-Adha and Christmas to the goat meat in our favourite light soup at the local chop bar, these animals are everywhere. However, simply raising a healthy animal is not enough to be successful. A farmer must know *where* to sell them (distribution) and *how* to attract buyers (marketing). This lesson will equip you with the knowledge to turn a small ruminant farm into a profitable business by understanding the modern marketplace.
This lesson focuses on two main ideas: Distribution Outlets and Marketing Methods. A. What are Distribution Outlets?
A distribution outlet is simply a place or a channel through which a farmer sells their animals or products to the final consumer or another business. Think of it as the pathway from the farm to the plate.
Types of Distribution Outlets for Small Ruminants in Ghana: Farm Gate Sales: Explanation: This is the simplest method where buyers come directly to the farm to purchase animals. It is common in rural communities. Example: A teacher from Accra travels to a village near Nsawam to buy a goat directly from Farmer Kweku for a naming ceremony. This gives the buyer a fresh animal and the farmer a good price without transport costs. Live Animal Retailers / Markets: Explanation: These are middlemen or traders who buy animals from farmers in bulk and sell them in smaller numbers at designated livestock markets or by the roadside. Example: The popular livestock market in Asesewa or Tamale where traders from all over the country come to buy and sell goats, sheep, and cattle. During festivals like Eid, you see many temporary roadside sellers. Hospitality Industry (Eateries, Restaurants, Hotels): Explanation: These businesses buy live animals or processed meat regularly to prepare meals for their customers. They often look for a consistent and reliable supply. Example: "Auntie Muni's Kitchen" in Accra or a local chop bar in Kumasi establishes a contract with a sheep farmer to supply 10 sheep every month for their popular tuo zaafi and mutton soup. Butchers and Abattoirs: Explanation: Butchers buy live animals, slaughter them at an abattoir (or a designated slab), and sell the meat in cuts to the public at butcher shops or local markets. Example: The local butcher at Madina Market buys three goats from a farmer, processes them, and sells the meat by weight to different households. Supermarkets and Cold Stores: Explanation: This is a more formal outlet. They require meat that has been professionally processed, inspected, packaged, and labelled. They cater to urban and middle-class consumers. Example: A farmer with a well-organized farm processes his sheep into lamb chops and minced meat, packages it attractively, and supplies it to Palace Hypermarket or Melcom. Event Organisers and Institutions: Explanation: These include individuals or companies organizing large events like funerals, weddings, festivals, and outdoorings. Schools (especially with boarding houses) and hospitals also buy in bulk. Example: A family planning a large funeral in the Ashanti Region contacts a farmer directly to buy 15 sheep to feed the guests. B. What are Marketing Methods?
Marketing involves all the activities a farmer undertakes to promote and sell their products. It's about creating awareness and persuading customers to buy from you instead of someone else.