TECHNICAL-ECONOMIC IMPACT OF RISK MANAGEMENT ON THE SEMI-TRANSHUMANT LIVESTOCK SYSTEM, CASE OF AIN EL BELL REGION IN ALGERIA

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of risk management on the semi-transhumant livestock system, in order to suggest a better model for managing the sheep production cycle.   Theoretical Framework: The semi-transhumant livestock system is facing an unprecedented set of risks occurring simultaneously. Therefore, studying the organization and management techniques of the semi-transhumant livestock system through a techno-economic approach, compares two situations (SWOR and SWR) based on using indisputable measures.   Method: A field survey is conducted with 300 breeders during the period from 2019 to 2021. The collected data are processed using the statistical model SPSS.   Results and Discussion: It is concluded that despite different situations, the same simplified production organization and marketing channels (social networks, informal contracts, etc.) are maintained. The SWR shows a decrease in herd size, adoption of 3 reproductive cycles, herd mobility and average profit, etc. However, there is an increase in production costs and acquisition of food products, etc. Ultimately, the results show that while unique risk situations impact semi-transhumant farming systems differently, their technical organizational and management measures render this impact insignificant based on non-parametric chi-square testing.   Research Implications: This study provides insight into risk management offering implications for technically feasible practices that are reliable and bio-economically viable for sustaining semi-transhumant livestock system.   Originality/Value: The value of this research is demonstrated by appropriate technical organizational and management measures impacting techno-economic farming results which will be useful to consider when other risks arise in future.