Analysis of economic and socio-demographic factors influencing consumption of beef and fish in Banjul, the Gambia

Abstract

This study investigated the determinants of demand for beef and fish in Banjul. The main objective of the study was to assess the factors affecting the demand for these products with a view to ascertain the influence of the socio-economic and demographic features of the respondents affecting the demand for these products to gaining more insight. Data used for the analyses were obtained through personal interviews conducted between April and May 2001 using structured questionnaire. A sample of 100 consumers was drawn from the study area using cluster sampling technique. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The results obtained showed that income, prices of the products, and household size were the major determinants of variation in the consumption of beef and fish among the respondents. Both products were found to be normal goods and generally price inelastic with fish being a close substitute to beef in the beef market. Increase in income leads to increased demand for meat in the area. Religion of household head as socio-demographic variable was found to be significant variable influencing demand for beef in the beef market.