Impact of New Rural Goat Marketing Structures through Auction Sales Pens to the Livelihood of Small-Holder Producers under the on-going, Advocacy for Small Livestock Value Addition: A Panacea for Rural Poverty Eradication in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Matobo district in Matabeleland South, Zimbabwe has the highest number of small ruminant populations. Small-holder goat producers in this predominantly rural district have for long been selling their livestock using informal systems. Farm-gate sales have been more popular but the returns were not satisfactory. Several initiatives have been introduced to improve on sales and profits but the impact has not been pleasing. This study, therefore, assessed the impact of new rural goat marketing structures through sales pens to the livelihood of small-holder producers and in the on-going small livestock value chains. The study focused on the small ruminant value chain projects being undertaken by a local Non-Governmental Organization operating in Matobo District of Matabeleland South Province. The study specifically targeted two wards, where sales pens had been constructed. A close examination of the project activities, participants including buyers and sellers, and documents was made in order to establish the extent of the impact of the new sales pens. Using key informant interviews and questionnaires, identification of positive changes and marketing challenges in these areas were done. This also included identifying some of the attempts made in trying to find solutions for profitable marketing of goats by producers. Statistical and qualitative data from both primary and secondary sources were collected and analyzed to ascertain the impact of the new sales pens to livelihoods and profitability of the new marketing structures to rural communities.