At Gatiko Farm, we specialize in intensive beef production systems designed to achieve exceptional weight gains through scientific feeding protocols and optimal animal management. Our goal is to produce market-ready bulls within 90 days, with each animal gaining an average of 2 kilograms per day.
Breed Selection
We work with beef breeds and crosses known for excellent feed conversion and rapid growth:
- Boran
- Sahiwal crosses
- Friesian crosses
- Other exotic and cross breeds with proven growth potential
Gatiko Farm operates an intensive beef production system designed to achieve exceptional growth rates through strategic management and precision nutrition. Our bulls enter the program at 250-300 kg (approximately 12-15 months old) and are fed scientifically formulated, high-energy rations that support a target daily weight gain of 2 kilograms per animal. Within our 90-day production cycle, each bull gains approximately 180 kg, reaching an optimal market weight of 430-480 kg. This accelerated finishing system combines carefully selected genetics, energy-dense feeding protocols, optimal housing conditions, and rigorous health management to maximize feed conversion efficiency and deliver consistently high-quality, market-ready beef cattle in record time.
Production System Overview
Target Performance Metrics
- Daily Weight Gain: 2 kg per animal per day
- Production Cycle: 90 days from entry to market
- Total Weight Gain: 180 kg per animal per cycle
- Entry Weight: 250-300 kg (approximately 12-15 months old)
- Target Market Weight: 430-480 kg
Feeding Program
Our intensive feeding program is built on high-energy, balanced rations that maximize weight gain while maintaining animal health:
Ration Components:
- High-quality concentrates (maize, wheat bran, cotton seed cake, sunflower cake)
- Energy-dense feeds including molasses for palatability
- Roughage (Napier grass, hay, or silage) for rumen health
- Mineral and vitamin supplements
- Clean water available ad libitum
Feeding Schedule:
- Concentrate feeding: 3-4% of body weight daily (split into 2-3 feedings)
- Roughage: 2-3% of body weight daily
- Progressive increase in concentrate ratio as animals adapt
Economic Benefits
Market Advantage
By achieving 180 kg weight gain in just 90 days, we can turn over capital quickly and respond to market demand efficiently. Our bulls reach optimal market weight for both local butcheries and commercial buyers.
Feed Conversion Efficiency
Our system targets a feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 6:1 to 7:1, meaning 6-7 kg of feed produces 1 kg of live weight gain. This efficiency ensures profitable production even with quality feed inputs.
Multiple Production Cycles
The 90-day production cycle allows us to complete four full cycles annually, maximizing facility utilization and annual revenue per pen.
Sustainability Practices
We are committed to sustainable beef production through:
- Efficient feed utilization to minimize waste
- Proper manure management and composting for crop production
- Water conservation through efficient watering systems
- Rotational use of pastures where applicable
- Integration with crop production for feed security
Quality Assurance
Gatiko Farm maintains high standards throughout the production process:
- Regular weight monitoring (bi-weekly weighing)
- Body condition scoring
- Feed quality testing
- Traceability records for each animal
- Pre-market veterinary inspection
Market Partnerships
We have established relationships with:
- Local butcheries and meat processors
- Livestock traders
- Export abattoirs
- Direct consumers seeking quality beef
Contact Gatiko Farm to learn more about our intensive beef production system or to discuss partnership opportunities in sustainable livestock farming.