Characterization of smallholder cattle production systems in South-Kivu province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract In South-Kivu province, cattle farming is an integral component of farmers’ livelihoods and one the few income-generating opportunities for smallholders. However, very studies have been conducted to characterize smallholders’ production systems. This study documents systems better understand their current situation, constraints they face offer. For that purpose, investigation was based on a structured survey questionnaire participatory interviews with 863 farmers in province. Collected data were analysed using factorial analysis mixed clustering techniques. The results revealed three types smallholder farms differing mainly herds’ sizes landholding. first category most common includes raising small herds (6.3 ± 6.7 cattle) local breeds herding system (in this work, “herding system” refers rearing which farmer drives stays his animals pastures fallow land during day) grazing fodder community pastures, lands roadside grasses, while constitutes scarce resource. second category, some tracts (< 5 ha) others large (> ha), but all medium-size (45.1 19.4 made up breeds, rear system. They also exploit animal feeding. third last (78.1 28.1 local, crossbred exotic raised free range fenced paddocks vast areas found high-altitude regions. being different according above-considered characteristics, categories remain extensive pastoral dominated by male farmers. Agriculture and/or husbandry are main source income livestock composed goats poultry, beside cattle. Still, groups require more inputs improvement strategies increased productivity challenging environment characterized low accessibility high demand milk meat. Fodder cultivation crop-livestock integration through agro-ecological as well access credit extension services proposed economic sector.