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Factors affecting adoption of livestock insurance: a case study of livestock farmers in Manzini Region, Swaziland

Author Affiliations

  • 1Department of AEM, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Swaziland, Luyengo-M205, Swaziland
  • 2Department of AEM, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Swaziland, Luyengo-M205, Swaziland

Res. J. Agriculture & Forestry Sci., Volume 5, Issue (8), Pages 6-14, August,8 (2017)

Abstract

The agriculture sector is a pillar of the growing economy of Swaziland and an important source of employment for rural households with majority of the population being dependent on this sector for income. However, different studies have shown that agriculture, particularly livestock farming, is more sensitive to climate change in Swaziland. To mitigate the plight of livestock farmers, some risk minimizing attempts have been introduced such as livestock insurance. The present objective of the study was to determine the factors that affect adoption of livestock insurance in the region. Primary data was collected by using self structured and well designed questionnaires through face to face interviews. The results of the present study revealed that 88% of the interviewed farmers had knowledge on livestock insurance but only 6% have adopted the livestock comprehensive policy. Factors that were identified to have more influence on the acceptance of livestock insurance by farmers were awareness on insurance, farming experience and farm diversification. Results also indicate that the major risks that livestock farmers face in Swaziland were revealed to be theft, drought and lightning. Agribusinesses are faced with major risks that are usually beyond their control, insurance is a mitigating tool that farmers need to adopt to protect their businesses and stay financially stable.

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