''An estimate of commercial beef demand in Zambia''

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Date
2015-11-11
Authors
Tembo, Hedges
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Abstract
This study was an attempt to get an understanding of the pattern of consumption of beef meat in Zambia over a seventeen-year (17) period from 1985 to2001. It also went on to explain the individual's demand for beef meat with reference to changes in the demand for substitute meats (pork and chicken), changes in real beef prices and real per capital income. Further, a forecast was made of the quantity of beef that would be consumed for the five (5) years from the year 2003 to 2007.Data collected mainly being quantitative, computer did analysis and the software used was statistical package for social sciences (SPSS).Research findings were that all things being equal, a one Kwacha increase (decrease) in the real consumer price of beef decreased (increased) the quantity of beef consumed by 9 746 heads of cattle and a one Kwacha increase (decrease) in the real per capital income increased (decreased) the quantity of beef consumed by 66 heads of cattle. Further, it was found out that a one Kwacha increase (decrease) in the real retail price of pork increased (reduced) the quantity of beef consumed by 663 heads of cattle while, ceteris paribus, a one Kwacha rise (decrease) in the real retail price of chicken caused the quantity of beef demanded to increase (fall) by 871 heads of cattle. However, only real per capital income and real price of beef were the main factors affecting beef consumption. From trend analysis it was found out that 17 062, 14 497, II 932 , 9 367 and 6802 in the years 2003, 2004, 2005 , 2006 and 2007 respectively. From these findings, the following recommendations were made: 1. Social change -need to implement policy that will encourage or persuade small scale farmers to go commercial and keep cattle for the markets 2. Establishment of livestock markets and slaughter houses at strategic points to encourage continuous cattle trades according to the actual price on the market 3. Support for beef processors in the Form of provision of credit facilities at preferential rates to those that would want to venture into beef processing or expand their plants and 4. Strict monetary policy so as to reduce inflation because it has a negative effect on prices and in turn, incomes 5.Employment creation 6. Integrating the market.
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Beef-Zambia-Marketing , Beef-Cattle-Zambia
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