Manure

Manure (also called digo in Somali) is animal excrement, particularly from cattle and goats, which people use to enrich soil in cultivated fields. It contains nutritive matter such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which plants require for growth.

Traditional farmers worldwide use manure as a natural fertilizer. When applied to soil, it increases organic matter, strengthens the soil's water-retention capacity, and supports microorganisms living in the soil.

Sources and types

The most commonly used manure comes from cattle, camels, sheep (both rams and ewes), donkeys, and poultry. Poultry manure is considered nitrogen-rich, and if not properly composted or aged, it can burn plant roots. Cattle and camel manure have moderate nutrient content and release nutrients gradually.

Preparation

Fresh manure is generally not applied directly to fields, as it carries bacteria and pathogens. The standard practice is to convert it to compost and leave it for months to mature and decompose. Heat from decomposition kills some pathogens. Manure is also made into slurry for application.

Other uses

In areas with limited access to fuel, processed manure is burned for fuel. It is also used to heat houses and courtyards. Some facilities use manure in biogas digesters to produce methane, while the residue serves as fertilizer.

Health and environmental risks

Improperly managed manure can contaminate water with bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella. When large quantities of manure reach rivers and wells, it causes excessive algae growth in waterways, reducing water oxygen levels. Manure also releases methane and nitrous oxide, which are greenhouse gases.