Socio-economic Determinants of Flock Size in Small-scale Broiler Production in Capricorn District of Limpopo Province, South Africa

摘要

This study aimed at determining the impact of socio-economic variables on flock sizes and identities production problems encountered by small-scale broiler production in Capricorn District, Limpopo province. The study hypothesised that, socio-economic variables are significant determinant of flock sizes. Disproportionate , stratified random sampling was used to select 60 farmers out of 330. Collected data was analysed using SPSS. Findings from the analysis reveals age (β_1=-0.741), gender (β_2=-0.807), educational (β_3=0.584), experience (β_4=0.326), credit (β_5=-0.5l5) and transportation (β_6=-0.854) significantly affect the flock sizes of small scale farmers. However, hired labour and government support were found to be insignificant in influencing flock size. High feed and chick costs, unavailability and inconsistent supply of farm inputs, lack of capital and poor extension support were other constraints. In conclusion, if production constraints mentioned above are properly addressed broiler flock size amongst small-scale broiler producers in the study area will increase.