Assessing the impact of technological advancements and globalization on the conservation and sustainability of indigenous chicken breeds in Murehwa district of Mashonaland East province in Zimbabwe
- Author
- Mumanyi, Rangarirai B.
- Title
- Assessing the impact of technological advancements and globalization on the conservation and sustainability of indigenous chicken breeds in Murehwa district of Mashonaland East province in Zimbabwe
- Abstract
- This study examined the conservation strategies for indigenous chicken breeds in Zimbabwe, assessing the influence of technological advancements and global market pressures. It also gathered insights from local farmers and agricultural experts to identify challenges and opportunities, culminating in practical recommendations to enhance sustainability and conservation efforts. The predominant conservation methods identified include in-situ practices, where indigenous chickens are maintained within their natural environments, and community-based breeding programs focusing on collaborative selection and breeding. Ex-situ conservation efforts, such as cryopreservation, are limited due to resource constraints and technical challenges. Technological advancements have had a dual impact. While the introduction of exotic breeds has led to the replacement of indigenous chickens, threatening genetic diversity, technologies like incubators and improved feeding systems offer potential benefits if appropriately adapted and adopted. Farmers face challenges such as disease prevalence, limited access to structured markets, inadequate extension services, and competition from exotic breeds. However, opportunities exist in the form of growing demand for organic and free-range products, integration of indigenous knowledge in farming practices, and value addition through processing indigenous chicken products.
- Date
- June 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Indigenous chicken breeds
- Global market
- Farmers
- Technological advancements
- Supervisor
- Mr. A. Pagute
- Item sets
- Department of Animal Sciences
