Cattle fattening and marketing practices by smallholder farmers and associated constraints in Geressie and Mirab Abaya districts, southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Context Smallholder cattle fattening in Ethiopia is important for rural livelihoods, but remains constrained by feed scarcity, weak markets, and limited support services. Aims This study assessed cattle fattening practices, marketing systems, and associated constraints in Geressie and Mirab Abaya districts of southern Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional survey of 174 households was conducted using a structured questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-squared tests, Student’s t-tests, and index ranking. Results Most farmers fattened young bulls and relied almost exclusively on local cattle breeds. Natural pasture, crop residues, and improved forages were the main feed resources. Cattle were mainly sourced from local markets or household herds, and selection was based on body condition and frame size. Marketing was highly seasonal, with most sales being concentrated around major holidays, particularly Meskel. Brokers dominated market transactions and information flow, limiting farmers’ bargaining power. Feed shortage and high feed cost were the most important production constraints, whereas market seasonality, broker dependence, and low prices were the key marketing challenges. Average profit per animal was about 10,000 ETB, with returns being higher in lowland areas. Conclusions Cattle fattening in the study area is constrained by inadequate feed resources, seasonal marketing, and strong intermediary dominance in cattle trade. Implications Improving feed supply, strengthening extension services, and enhancing direct market access are critical to improving productivity and profitability of smallholder cattle fattening systems.