Evaluation of Farm Record Keeping, Benefits and Challenges of Small Ruminant Production in Gbonyin Ekiti Local Government Area

Abstract

This study evaluated farm record-keeping practices, benefits, and challenges among small ruminant farmers in Gbonyin Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Nigeria. A total of 60 farmers were randomly selected from eleven (11) communities. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages were used to analyze quantitative data, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The results revealed that respondents were dominated by middle-aged (41–50 years); males (65%) with secondary education (53.3%), indicating a literate and active labour force. Most respondents (85%) reared goats, primarily for income generation and household consumption. The majority practiced an extensive production system and did not engage in rotational grazing. Although 63.3% of farmers were aware of manure benefits, all respondents used animal waste as fertilizer, reflecting environmental consciousness. Record keeping was poorly practiced, with only 35% maintaining any form of record, mostly manual, and irregularly updated. Major constraints to record keeping included lack of time (28.3%), limited education (21.7%), and inadequate resources (11.6%). Despite these challenges, farmers identified income generation (26.7%) and manure production as key benefits of small ruminant farming. Profitability was perceived as moderate by 38.3% of respondents, though uncertainty persisted due to poor documentation and market fluctuations. The study concludes that while small ruminant farming contributes meaningfully to rural livelihoods, improved training, access to record-keeping tools, and institutional support are essential for enhancing productivity and financial sustainability among smallholder farmers.