A typology of smallholder livestock production systems reflecting the impact of the development of a local milk collection industry: Case study of Fatick region, Senegal

Abstract Senegal is a country where millions of livelihoods directly depend on smallholder livestock production activities. Unfortunately, these farmers now face the effects changing climate and associated societal responses. In addition, lack understanding specific farmers’ problems in their respective systems by assuming homogeneity has led to inappropriate planning interventions inefficient utilization resources. The variations individual farming local contexts require understand each system separately inform decision-makers relevant stakeholders about entries intervention for based customized needs. Using Fatick region case study, different statistical clustering techniques were adopted develop typology that reflects above realities. This confirmed co-existence three cluster with differences similarities targets quantities, market access, animal breeds, management animals. studied represented new format development, implementation dairy processor its milk collection centre created dynamic Farmers extension services consistent opportunity provided increased productivity offered an alternative source income but they have also reiterated concerns like processor’s low buying prices which need be addressed. To harness growth regional opportunities, there establish robust continuous collaboration structures between Government, agro-industries, producers. These public-private partnerships will help producers lower cost inputs increase while boosting production.