Abstract
Beef production in Kenya is the forte of pastoralists and large-scale ranches in the Arid and Semi-Arid areas. Cross sectional data was collected from 67 pastoralists and seven large-scale ranches, selected through multistage stratified sampling. Comparative descriptive statistics, gross margin analysis and analysis of production constraints were done with the objective of assessing the pastoralists and large-scale ranches direct economic gains, constraints to production and potential for upgrading. Gross margin analysis showed that beef production is profitable for both pastoralists and large-scale ranches. However, large-scale ranches had much higher gross margins of up to six times more. There were significant differences in the live weight of cattle, prices and livestock selling channels and cost of production. Drought, livestock diseases, invasive plant species, lack of water and human-wildlife conflict were among factors limiting productivity of pastoralists. The difference in gross margins indicates existing potential for pastoralists to improve their earnings through a combination of product, process, and functional upgrading. Addressing key constraints to production can contribute to better gains and strengthen coexistence between pastoralists and large-scale ranches. Strategies and programmes to enhance cattle fattening, provision of livestock extension services, affordable feed inputs and collaboration between the two production systems should be considered in upgrading.
Highlights
More than ever before, food value chains are under pressure to produce more for a growing population with increasingly dynamic consumption patterns
Our results revealed striking differences in constraints to beef production between the pastoralists and large-scale ranches that could further explain the difference in gross margins
Gross margin analysis has revealed revenues accruing to each type of beef producer and the extent to which they differ
Summary
Food value chains are under pressure to produce more for a growing population with increasingly dynamic consumption patterns. As food demand steadily rises, production has not kept pace to ensure there is commensurate expansion in supply [1]. This has been the case for beef production in Kenya. Beef continues to be the most popular red meat in Kenya, constituting up to 80% of the red meat consumed in the country [2]. At an average increase of 13% in the last four years, annual beef consumption in Kenya is currently at 14 kg per person [3]. Bosire et al [4] estimated a higher annual beef consumption of 17 kg per person
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