Landcover, Land Use and Technical Efficiency of Honey Production in Tigray
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48346/IMIST.PRSM/ajlp-gs.v8i4.52892Keywords:
land coverAbstract
Context and background
Ethiopia's agricultural sector faces significant challenges that threaten food security and sustainability, especially in rural areas dominated by smallholder farmers. In the Tanqua-Abergele district, many households engage in beekeeping, which has great potential for economic development and environmental sustainability. The district's diverse landscape, characterized by inaccessible lands for conventional farming, is rich in trees, shrubs, and flowering plants, making it ideal for honey production. However, inadequate beekeeping management systems lead to low productivity and efficiency. To enhance productivity sustainably, it is essential to investigate the impact of land cover—such as forested areas and floral diversity—on the technical efficiency of honey production.
Goal and Objectives:
The purpose of the study was to assess the impact of landcover and land use on the technical efficiency of honey producers in the district, identifying key skills required, challenges and providing insights that can inform strategies to improve beekeeping practices and overall productivity.
Methodology:
The study employed a multi-faceted approach to assess the technical efficiency of honey producers in the Tanqua-Abergele district. A parametric stochastic frontier model was implemented using maximum likelihood estimation. Additionally, a Tobit model was applied to analyze the impact of land cover and other socio-economic factors on technical efficiency, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the influences affecting honey production in the region.
Results:
This study offered key insights into the technical efficiency of smallholder honey producers, revealing an average efficiency score of 84%. While producers generally utilize resources well, there are notable variations that suggest opportunities for improvement. The study highlights land size, land cover, equipment, labor, and honey variety as critical factors influencing productivity, with increases in these inputs significantly enhancing honey output. The Tobit model identifies determinants of technical inefficiency, indicating that female-headed households tend to be less efficient, while higher education and larger family sizes correlate with improved efficiency. Access to extension services and the use of preferred honey sources also boost productivity. Further analysis of land cover and land use variables reveals important effects on technical inefficiency. Increased wildflower coverage significantly reduces inefficiency, enhancing honey production. Grassland and pasture also positively impact efficiency, while alfalfa, clover, and sunflower contribute similarly. In contrast, cultivated land shows a marginally positive effect on inefficiency, suggesting it may not support honey production as effectively as more natural land types. The analysis highlights the potential for improving honey production through strategic land use planning.
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