Community-based performance indicators for monitoring and evaluating livestock interventions

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Livestock Management
• Socioeconomics

Background:

• Livestock are crucial for livelihoods in many rural communities.
• Effective monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks are needed for livestock interventions.
• Farmer-centric indicators ensure relevance and adoption of M&E tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify livestock performance indicators used by farmers in Malipati, Zimbabwe.
• To assess the scientific validity of farmer-identified indicators.
• To develop an M&E framework for livestock interventions based on farmer preferences and scientific evidence.

Main Methods:

• Mixed methods research combining quantitative (questionnaires) and qualitative (focus group discussions) approaches.
• Data analysis using SPSS version 25 and a ranking matrix to prioritize indicators.
• Scientific validity confirmed through a comprehensive literature review.

Main Results:

• Key performance indicators identified: egg production (poultry), milk yield (cattle), kidding/lambing interval (goats/sheep), and animal power (donkeys).
• All farmer-identified indicators were found to be scientifically valid.
• A robust M&E framework was developed using these validated indicators.

Conclusions:

• Farmer-identified livestock performance indicators are scientifically sound and relevant.
• The developed M&E framework enhances the effectiveness of livestock interventions.
• Integrating farmer knowledge into M&E systems improves livestock development outcomes.