Evaluating factors influencing goat commercialization among smallholder farmers in Gweru district, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The global goat industry has experienced significant growth and commercialization in recent years, driven by increasing demand for goat meat, milk, and other products. However, the full potential of this activity remains underexploited, with a myriad of challenges hindering its successful commercialization. The aim of the study was to assess the factors affecting the commercialization of smallholder goat farming and come up with a model that restitutes the situation. The study was conducted in Chiundura ward 12, in Gweru rural district in the Midlands Province of Zimbabwe. The assessment adopted a cross-sectional study design, and data was gathered using key informant interviews, household questionnaires, value chain mapping, and stakeholder analysis. SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis, Human Computer Interaction (HCI) model and logistic regression models were used in the analysis of data. On the current state of goat commercialization, it was found out that the average HCI rate was at 29.7%, meaning that generally the area is implementing a subsistence approach to goat production. Based on the analysis, there is still a huge gap for Chiundura's smallholder goat farmers to commercialize their operations. The analysis revealed that three factors statistically influenced the household level of goat commercialization which include attainment of secondary-level education by the household head, availability of an animal health center within the area, and attendance of training in animal health. The findings from the logistic regression model showed that there was a significant amount of variance (Chi square - 88%; P = .000) between choice of market outlet and the predictor variables. The choice of marketing outlet was found to be significantly influenced by the availability of market information to the household. The study revealed that the goat value chain is dominated by the presence of mobile goat vendors who serve as key intermediaries connecting smallholder producers to the market. Based on the gaps noted in the assessment, a model was developed for improving the commercialization of goat farming for smallholder farmers and the establishment of a robust goat value chain. The study recommended that stakeholders should establish and strengthen market information systems that provide timely and accurate data on prices, demand, and other relevant market dynamics to smallholder goat farmers. The model for enhancing smallholder goat farming's commercialization and building a strong goat value chain was developed by the study. Establishing a goat one-stop business centre was also proposed as a key recommendation. Finally, the model clarifies linkages to foster private sector stakeholder collaborations for farmer training, extension services, research, and monitoring and evaluation. Keywords: Commercialization, value chain, mapping, smallholder goat farming