Assessment of the impact of phenotypic traits and the festival of Eid Al-Adha on the prices of small ruminants in the livestock market "Sougr-Nooma" in Ouagadougou

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the impact of phenotypic parameters and festive events on the price of small ruminants in Burkina Faso. A semi-directive survey using a quiz was conducted among sheep customers at the "Sougr-Nooma" livestock market in Tanghin, Ouagadougou. Data collection focused on Aid El Kebir and lasted for three weeks. The collected data included the prices and some physical characteristics (both quantitative and qualitative) of the animals. The survey covered 120 sheep sold on this market along with 120 buyers. Live weight was the most important quantitative phenotypic parameter in determining the price of sheep (r=0.91). For every kilogram increase in live weight, the selling price increased by 2703.71 F CFA. Removing live weight from the linear regression model revealed that withers height and thoracic girth could also determine animal prices. This model accounted for 53.12% of the variation in the price per animal. The significant influence of thoracic perimeter and withers height on the price of sheep could be attributed to their role in estimating live weight in the absence of a scale. Regarding qualitative traits breed and coat structure were the most influential factors on animal prices. Additionally, animal prices were significantly higher before the Tabaski festival compared to post-festival prices (84,605.26±9,087.59 vs. 61,905.94±3,941.53 F CFA).