Constraints Inhibiting Farmers’ Adoption of Cattle Feedlots as a Climate-Smart Practice in Rural Communities of the Eastern Cape, South Africa: An In-Depth Examination

Abstract

The adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices is crucial for enhancing resilience to climate change in rural communities, particularly in developing regions like the Eastern Cape, South Africa. This study provides an in-depth examination of the factors constraining farmers’ adoption of cattle feedlots as a climate-smart practice in the rural communities of the Eastern Cape. The research aims to identify the barriers and challenges that hinder the widespread adoption of cattle feedlots and understand the underlying factors contributing to the farmers’ decision-making processes. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews, to gather data from 250 farmers in rural communities of the Eastern Cape. The data were analyzed using regression analysis and thematic analysis to identify the key constraints inhibiting the adoption of cattle feedlots as a climate-smart strategy. The findings revealed several significant constraints that farmers faced in adopting cattle feedlots. Financial limitations, including limited access to credit and lack of financial resources, emerged as critical barriers. Infrastructure and resource constraints, such as inadequate water supply and electricity, hindered adoption. Knowledge and skills gaps, cultural and social factors, market limitations, and environmental considerations further contributed to the constraints experienced by farmers. To address these constraints, the study proposes interventions to promote the adoption of cattle feedlots as a climate-smart practice. These interventions include improving access to affordable financing options, providing capacity-building programs on feedlot management and climate-smart practices, disseminating information on feedlot benefits and best practices, developing the necessary infrastructure, strengthening market linkages, and creating a supportive policy environment. However, it is important to note the study’s limitations, such as the small sample size and the cross-sectional nature of the data, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Further research is needed to validate and expand upon these findings in a broader context. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the factors constraining farmers’ adoption of cattle feedlots as a climate-smart practice in the rural communities of the Eastern Cape, South Africa.