Beef Production in the Rangelands: A Comparative Assessment between Pastoralism and Large-Scale Ranching in Laikipia County, Kenya

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.

Seroepidemiology of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus (CCHFV) in Cattle across Three Livestock Pastoral Regions in Kenya

“…ELISA results for the sera of 148 cattle tested were presented in percent probability (PP), which signified that the optical density (OD) obtained for the tested sample was divided by the OD of the positive control of the test and multiplied by 100. As per the manufacturer's instructions, samples presenting a PP less than or equal to 30% were considered negative, and those greater than 30% were considered positive [29].…”

“…The beef and dairy sector are the largest contributors to the agricultural gross domestic product in Kenya [27]. They are also an important source of income, especially in terms of value in the market chain and employment [28] and the main economic activities for rural communities that practice ranching and pastoralism [29][30][31]. Therefore, CCHFV poses a significant threat to animal trade, considering infected animals may result in livestock embargos which will affect the economy.…”

“…Figure 3. Individual optical density (OD) value by ELISA in different seasons during the sampling years of the surveyed cattle relative to manufacturer's instructions[29]. Bars represent the 95% confidence interval of the measure.…”

Does the Community Conservancy Model Work for Pastoralists? Insights from Naibunga Conservancy in Northern Kenya

“…While what drove gender disparity in local participation is unclear, we posit that the observed gender disparity in the perception of conservancy-related improvement in accessibility to grazing resources could be responsible. In addition, in our study region, adult males largely take care of cattle, which usually require more forage and water, and are normally herded in far-flung areas away from homesteads [41]. Therefore, males engaged in cattle herding may have little time to participate in conservancy management and conservation activities.…”

“…This argument is consistent with the positive association between perception of improved household income and livestock ownership that was observed in this study. In addition, there is evidence that pastoralists in this region sell their livestock to pay school fees for their children [41], further underscoring the role of livestock in enhancing accessibility to schools. Therefore, community conservancies should redouble their efforts to create a favorable environment for livestock rearing as a strategy to enhance local household incomes and accessibility to these facilities.…”