Husbandry, Production, and Milk Composition of Sheep in Khartoum State, Sudan

Abstract

Introduction: In Sudan, sheep are predominantly raised under nomadic production systems for live animals and meat export, whereas their potential for milk production remains largely overlooked. This study aimed to characterize the production performance and milk composition of sheep in Khartoum State, Sudan. Methods and materials: A cross-sectional design was employed, utilizing closed-ended questionnaires and direct interviews with 20 sheep owners to document husbandry practices and ewe production performance. Additionally, colostrum (n=20) and milk (n=80) samples collected from 20 ewes were analyzed for solids-not-fat (SNF), fat, protein, lactose, and density. Results: The Shugor sheep breed was predominant (95%) among surveyed farmers, only 5% of farms-maintained production records. Sheep were primarily reared for meat (50%), meat and milk (25%), and investment/savings (20%), with only 5% dedicated solely to milk production. Water was mainly sourced from wells (70%), and ewes had ad libitum access (85%). Mating was occurred more in winter (60%) and autumn (35%). Natural parturition was reported in 85% of farms, with a 10% abortion rate. Produced milk was mainly used for roub (traditional product, 69.2%). Summer was the preferred season for milk production and sales (81.8%). Colostrum from Shugor ewes showed significantly higher mean SNF (15.28 ± 1.30%), protein (6.17 ± 0.50%), and lactose (8.03 ± 0.72%) compared to normal milk (10.68 ± 0.43%, 4.22 ± 0.17%, and 5.55 ± 0.22%, respectively). No significant difference was observed in fat content between colostrum (6.11 ± 0.43%) and normal milk (6.72 ± 0.62%). Conclusion: The Shugor breed was the most common sheep type in the study area, raised primarily for meat production. Sheep milk is rich in total solids, fat, and protein.