Feed and Fodder Manager - Enabling Impact (Office of Programs) at International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC)

The International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) is an independent non-profit organization that combines innovative research, market systems development, and strategic partnerships to identify and scale sustainable soil solutions for improved food security and livelihoods around the world.

We are recruiting to fill the position below: 

Job Title: Feed and Fodder Manager - Enabling Impact (Office of Programs)

Location: Ogun
Job Type: Full Time

Responsibilities

• The consultant will support the development of a sustainable feed and fodder supply and facilitate the transition of dairy production in Southwest Nigeria to a more productive, low-carbon footprint and self-sustaining dairy farming system by improving access to inputs (especially, feed), services, technical expertise, financing, and sustainable markets. More specifically, the consultant will carry out the following activities:

Pasture and Fodder Management (60%):

• Develop and implement plans for the sustainable management of pasture lands and fodder crops;
• Identify suitable fodder species based on the climate, soil type, and livestock requirements in Southwest, Nigeria;
• Oversee the use of organic or synthetic fertilizers and soil amendments to enhance fodder growth while monitoring the growth of fodder crops, ensuring optimal yields and nutritional content;
• Coordinate planting and harvesting schedules to ensure year-round availability of fodder, overseeing the selection, planting, and harvesting of crops such as grasses, legumes, and silage;
• Promote sustainable land use and regenerative agriculture practices that enhance soil health and biodiversity;
• Implement rotational grazing, agroforestry, and cover cropping to maintain pasture productivity and ecosystem balance;
• Work with local farmers, cooperatives, and government agencies to promote sustainable fodder and pasture management practices, participating in initiatives aimed at improving regional fodder supply chains and livestock feeding practices; Engage with the local community to emphasize on the importance of responsible grazing and pasture management to ensure long term land productivity.

Livestock Feed Management (20%):

• Ensure that the produced fodder meets the nutritional requirements of the livestock;
• Monitor livestock health and adjust feeding strategies based on seasonal variations and pasture availability;
• Develop and manage irrigation systems to ensure that pastures and fodder crops receive adequate water. Monitor water usage to ensure efficiency, minimizing waste and environmental impact;
• Develop and implement pest and weed control strategies that minimize damage to pasture and fodder crops;
• Utilize integrated pest management (IPM) approaches to control pests and weeds, reducing reliance on chemical treatments;
• Manage resources, including machinery, seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs necessary for fodder and pasture production. Ensure that equipment such as tractors, irrigation systems, and harvesting machines are well- maintained and operated efficiently.

Monitoring and Evaluation (20%):

• Regularly assess pasture conditions, fodder crop performance, and livestock feed quality;
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as pasture productivity, fodder yield, and grazing efficiency;
• Use data and observations to make informed decisions regarding adjustments to grazing schedules, crop management, and resource allocation;
• Maintain accurate records of pasture and fodder production, including yields, grazing patterns, and resource usage.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master or PhD) in agriculture, livestock management, animal nutrition, soil sciences, environmental science or a related field.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

Method of Application
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online