Goat farming as an alternative income generating activity for fisher families

 
Goat farming and community

Goat farming and community , Sri Lanka © RMahindapala , 2009

Objectives

This project aimed to build capacity and promote self-reliance among poor farmers and widows through improved income and social status.

Background

This small grant project set out to improve the socio-economic conditions of the war-affected and tsunami-affected population in Pottuvil, including families headed by widows, by supporting goat rearing and the development of a profitable and sustainable goat-farming business.
Goat farming is an increasingly important livelihood activity in the Sarvadayapuram area of Pottuvil, providing an environmentally friendly and sustainable source of income for poor farmers. The resources available in the area for goat production and livestock rearing projects are gradually expanding.

Target beneficiaries

Tsunami-affected residents of Pottuvil, in particular 75 families, some headed by widows.

Outputs

  • Land clearing and preparation of selected sites for the goat farm.
  • Construction of fencing around the farm.
  • Construction of a farm office, a shelter for goats, and a well.
  • Training of eight widows to manage day-to-day activities at the farm.
  • An increase in the original herd of 28 goats (certified by the local state veterinarian) to 43 animals within six months.

Accomplishments and challenges

Apart from some difficulties encountered during construction of the well (limited groundwater and a rocky substrate), the small grant project performed well. The community participated in operating a well-managed and profitable goat farm. Eight widows were given access to a part-time occupation, allowing each women to earn an average monthly income of LKR 2,000 (US$17). The government contributed financial support to continue the project, and the local social development society organises monthly meetings to monitor the farm’s progress.
Contributions to cross-cutting themes
Gender equality
This project targeted both men and women to develop capacity and increasing income.

Contributions to cross-cutting themes

Gender equality

This project targeted both men and women to develop capacity and increasing income.

Lessons Learned

Goat farming turned out to be a profitable alternative livelihood for the community.

Project Facts

Country

Location

Pottuvil, Sri Lanka

Topic

Duration

1st Jan 2009 to 31st Dec 2009

MFF Grant Amount

US$4,386

Implementing Partner

Al-Ameen Sammothy Society
 
Arugambay, Sarvodayapuram,
Pottuvil – 05,
Sri Lanka
 
Tel: +94 77 4061011

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