Assessment of Artificial Insemination on Smallholder Dairy Farmers’ Livelihoods in Muheza District of the Tanga Region in Tanzania
M.P. Mpira
Department of Cattle Research, Tanzania Livestock Research Institute (TALIRI), P.O. Box 5016, Tanga, Tanzania.
K.T. Kabuni *
Department of Cattle Research, Tanzania Livestock Research Institute (TALIRI), P.O. Box 202, Mpwapwa, Tanzania.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study investigated artificial insemination (AI)'s impact on Tanzanian smallholder dairy farmers' livelihoods. 116 farmers in Muheza district were surveyed using a cross-sectional design. Data analysis employed a Probit model and Propensity Score Matching (PSM) to account for self-selection bias in AI adoption. This rigorous approach allowed isolation of impact of AI from other factors influencing farmer livelihoods. AI adoption significantly improved smallholder dairy farmers' livelihoods, notably increasing daily meal consumption and income. Substantially higher incomes were reported from AI adopters than non-adopters, indicating enhanced economic stability. This improvement is likely due to superior genetics leading to healthier, more productive cattle and increased milk production. Additionally, AI adoption may indirectly boost farming practices through knowledge transfer and support networks. Therefore, to significantly boost food security and economic well-being, the Tanzanian government should prioritize expanding access to superior dairy genetics and high-quality breeding services for smallholder farmers. This targeted investment will dramatically improve livelihoods not only in Muheza district of the Tanga region but also in other rural communities in Tanzania.
Keywords: Artificial insemination, dairy cattle, livelihoods, smallholder farmers