Typical Zimbabwean small-scale pig production systems: A case study of Nyabane, Bulilima District, Matabeleland South Province.

Abstract

Pig production is one of the most important socio-economic activities among farmers in marginal areas who are trying to improve their limited living conditions. Due to a multitude of impediments, including poorer breeds and financial constraints among small-scale pig farmers, national pig slaughters declined by 5% in the year 2020. The Nyabane area in Bulilima district was used as a case study to evaluate the causes of poor pig production in smallholder systems. Snowball sampling technique in a mixed methods research design was employed. A questionnaire was used to collect data from pig producers, as well as observations and conversations with extension staff. Thematic approach for qualitative data and Microsoft Excel for summarizing quantitative findings were used as data analysis techniques. The extensive production system was being used among Nyabane smallholder pig farmers. Eighty percent of farmers knew when to breed their swine since they observed their pigs’ heat cues. However, the average litter size was small, at only four piglets per sow every furrowing, compared to the commercial average of ten piglets per sow per furrowing. An average return to breeding time of 60 days after weaning indicated low sow productivity. Pigs were malnourished due to the fact that they were only fed low quality kitchen waste once a day. This explains the observed low body condition score of less than two against a recommended score of 3 for breeding sows. Based on the findings, the researcher suggests that the Pig Industry Board and other agriculture training institutions avails sufficient skills training to smallholder pig producers around the country with the goal of improving and refreshing on pig management aspects. Moreover, financial aid should also be made available to help those who have financial difficulties.