Authors : Silvester Machenesa; Maphios Mpofu; Lawrence Masaka; Braine Madzinga

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 7 - July

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/4scmfybm

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26jul043

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Abstract : Donkeys play a crucial role in the livelihoods of low- to middle-income farmers, particularly to smallholder farmers where resources are limited. They provide essential income and serve as a crucial means of transporting food, water, goods, and tillage to resource-limited communities. Despite their significance, concerns regarding the decline in donkey populations have been overlooked. The aim of this investigation was to explore the causes of donkey population decline and its impact on smallholder farmers. A case study of Zimuto Communal Area, Masvingo District in Masvingo Province. The research was carried out using RAO software to select sample size. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20 (SPSS). Four hundred and four (n= 404) were randomly interviewed using semi- structured questionnaire on a face-to-face basis. Analysis of individual responses focused on key indicator questions related to demographic information was used to investigate the cause of donkey population decline and its impact on smallholder farmers. The results showed that, lack of training in donkey farming was the most significant factor contributing to population decline. As a result, small holder farmers are forced to resort to manual farming methods, leading to reduced farming area result in low yield, increased labor burdens on women and children, and the erosion of wealth, particularly among disadvantaged families. Work should be focus on collaborating with donkey owners, Agritex, Researchers, Private Partners, Veterinary Service, Institute of Higher learning and Scholars in order to improve on donkey welfare.

Keywords : Donkeys; Population Decline; Impact; Economic Significance; Technical Advice.

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