Livestock populations and the household economy: a case study from southern zimbabwe

This study explores the consequences of the contrasting dynamics of different savanna environments for livestock production in southern Zimbabwe. It is based on an interdisciplinary analysis of agroecosystems at a regional and local level, drawing on hitorical data, discussions with local informants, household economic studies and focused ecological investigations. The agropastoral economy, and the role of livestock within this, has changed dramatically during this century, resulting in changes in management strategies. Patterns of sales behaviour are examined for cattle populations in the region between 1923 and 1986. This is used, along with data on biological parameters, to develop an integrated understanding of the economic and ecological factors that affect stock population changes.

These factors combine to maintain stock at high population levels in line with farmers' economic objectives. The economic value of cattle, donkeys and goats is investigated with local level data on production and use values. This highlights the contrasting role of different stock species in the agropastoral economy. Household economic data is presented that investigates the implications of differences in domestic cycles, income and expenditure patterns, agricultural success and food security position on stock investment and disposal decisions. Comparisons are made between different wealth groups and different ecological zones. These contrasts are also considered in relation to livestock survival strategies during two recent droughts.

Questions of drought survival and `carrying capacity' can be related to the foraging behaviour of stock species in different savanna types. The role of small `key resource' grazing areas and the browse resource is emphasised. The consequences of high stocking rates on long term sustainability is also discussed. It is argued that the integration of economic and ecological interpretations provides a different perspective on a range of important livestock policy issues.