January 25, 2013 

Abu Dhabi experts advise on livestock funds

Abu Dhabi experts advised its Executive Council on its planned investment of AED330 billion (US$90 billion) for the country's economy over the next five years.

Last week, the Executive Council said it would invest AED330 billion (US$90 billion) in the economy over the next five years to develop a number of projects including new homes, schools, roads and other vital infrastructure schemes in Abu Dhabi.

One project was establishing complexes to help animal breeders who do not benefit from the government fodder subsidy programme. They will provide veterinary services, quarantine centres and markets for animal products, while improving those products and increasing trade.

The council will also create an Abu Dhabi Department for Food Monitoring to co-ordinate with government and semi-government authorities to encourage the marketing of local produce.

"It's a good idea and really the only idea that they can do here to support animal husbandry," said Mohammad Reza, a veterinarian at Al Saqer Group in Abu Dhabi.

Reza said one of many factors to determine the project's success, was experienced staff. He also said malnutrition among livestock was common. Veterinary services and quarantines centres were also a must.

"This kind of service is needed in Abu Dhabi," said Naimuddin Syed, a veterinarian at the National Veterinary Hospital in Abu Dhabi. "I think people want these services if animals become sick. There's no government clinic so I like the idea. It's good and there are a lot of people that take interest in this."

But farmers were more sceptical. The farmers think that the project is good but it should ease the financial expenses they are paying now. Some of the major issues facing farmers included costs for animal vaccinations and feed.