Utete, TZ – Livestock loan suffers setback – 30 Nov 2014

The MOM family had an unpleasant surprise this month as their much-anticipated calf died during birth. The family was eagerly awaiting the birth of the calf. Having a calf would increase the mother cow’s milk production. The calf would also be a valuable asset for the future. Male cows can be sold for meat or breeding, and females can be sold or milked.

This is the second time the MOM family has lost a calf at birth. The loss of the calves is giving them great stress and difficulties repaying their loans. Because the mother cow has not had a calf in so long, her milk production is lower than usual. The stress of losing a calf is also detrimental to milk production.

The family is now considering their options for how to proceed with this project. They are considering selling the cow and buying a different variety which may be more dependable in local conditions.