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Author
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Muresherwa, Caleb
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Title
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Assessing the impact of pen fattening on beef productivity and profitability in small scale commercial farming systems: A case of Chireka farm, Zimbabwe
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Abstract
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ABSTRACT
Beef production is a crucial component of the agricultural sector in Zimbabwe, contributing significantly to the country's gross domestic product (GDP) and providing crucial livelihoods for rural populations. However, small-scale commercial farming systems face numerous challenges that can impact the productivity and profitability of cattle production. One strategy that has gained attention is the practice of pen fattening, where cattle are confined to small areas and fed a controlled diet. This study, conducted at Chireka Farm in Zimbabwe, aimed to assess the impact of pen fattening on beef productivity and profitability within the small-scale commercial farming context. The research utilized a range of methods, including descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis, and SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis, to compare the growth patterns of pen-fattened cattle, compare the performance of pen-fattened beef versus veld/grass-fed cattle, and identify the key challenges and constraints faced by the farm. The findings of the study provide valuable insights into the potential benefits and limitations of pen fattening. The descriptive analysis revealed detailed information on growth patterns of pen-fattened cattle at Chireka Farm, including the breeds, feeding regimes, and management strategies employed. The gross margin analysis demonstrated that pen fattening can indeed contribute to enhanced beef productivity and profitability, with the pen-fattened cattle exhibiting superior performance compared to their veld-fed counterparts that is in pen fattened cattle a gross margin of $310 was obtained and in those raised under veld a gross margin of $170 was also obtained. Therefore, from the results of the study revealed that the small-scale commercial cattle fattening enterprise is profitable and viable venture. However, the study also identified several key challenges and constraints that small-scale farmers like Chireka Farm face in implementing effective pen fattening systems. These include issues related to feed availability and cost, disease management, financial and asset barriers, and competitiveness in the market. The SWOT analysis provided a comprehensive assessment of these factors, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and policy support to address the identified weaknesses and threats. The findings of this study hold significant implications for the development of small-scale commercial farming systems in Zimbabwe. By understanding the potential benefits and limitations of pen fattening, policymakers and agricultural extension services can work to devise strategies that empower small-scale farmers to optimize their cattle production practices and enhance the overall productivity and profitability of the beef industry. This, in turn, can contribute to improved food security, employment opportunities, and sustainable rural livelihoods in the country.
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Date
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May 2024
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Publisher
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BUSE
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Keywords
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Small-scale commercial farming
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Beef production
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Cattle production
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Supervisor
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Dr A.C. Mujeyi
Muresherwa - AEM.pdf