The contribution of small-scale commercial piggery farming to farmers' livelihoods in Teyateyaneng Urban Council, Berea, Lesotho

Abstract

This study was conducted in Teyateyaneng urban council in Berea focusing on the contribution of small-scale piggery farming to farmers’ livelihoods. The main objectives were to determine whether pig farming generates income for farmers; has increased their wellbeing; improved their food security as well as reduce their vulnerability. A mixed method approach was used to conduct the study where qualitative data was initially collected through one on one interviews followed by quantitative data collection. Qualitative data was collected from nine key informants and the results obtained from them were used to structure and obtain quantitative data from one hundred and twenty pig farmers in TY Urban council. The findings obtained through a thematic analysis revealed that farmers’ livelihoods have been positively affected by small scale pig farming which has shown a socio-economic impact on their households. The statistical software (PSPP) was used to determine whether farmers were able to generate income and the majority (60.8%) agreed while the minority denied (39.2%). The chi square test was also used to determine the association between farmers’ demographics and livelihood outcomes. The results obtained showed that there is no association between the variables except farmers’ marital status and employment status which were significantly associated.