Evaluation of small-scale goat farmers' participation in the auction market : a case study of Polokwane Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

South Africa's agricultural landscape is characterized by diverse livestock farming practices, with goat farming playing a crucial role in enhancing food security and rural livelihoods. Goats are cost-effective, easily raised livestock that significantly contribute to human nutrition. Despite that, Small-scale goat farmers in rural areas often struggle with low auction market participation due to limited access to assets and infrastructure. This kind of market holds immense promise to access broader markets, obtain fair prices for their produce, and foster sustainable livelihoods. The study employed a quantitative research approach and collected cross-sectional primary data from 73 small-scale goat farmers using a simple random sampling method. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with the farmers, and a questionnaire was utilized. The collected data was managed using IBM SPSS program version 29. Descriptive statistics, along with the Double-Hurdle and binary logistic regression models, were employed to analyze the study's objectives. The study found that 28 small-scale goat farmers participate in auction markets, while 45 do not. Binary logistic regression model showed that household size, legal identification mark of goats, access to goat auction market information, and body condition score of goats are small-scale farmers' challenges in the auction market. The double-hurdle model found that age and body condition score affected small-scale goat farmers' decision to participate in auction markets. Factors such as marital status, household size, body condition score of goats, and access to an extension officer, household income level and availability of transport for goats to the auction market impacted participation. Efforts should focus on supporting small-scale goat farmers to enhance their participation in auction markets through collaboration with government agencies and development organizations can help identify suitable auction markets and improve infrastructure. Tailored support programs should mitigate household size-related barriers, offering training and financial incentives. Extension officers play a crucial role in streamlining legal procedures and providing vital market information. Finally, addressing goats' health and nutrition ensures better market appeal, fostering sustainable growth in the sector.