Drivers and Consequences of Land Degradation on Livestock Productivity in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Literature Review

Mhlangabezi Slayi (), Leocadia Zhou, Admire Rukudzo Dzvene and Zolisanani Mpanyaro
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Mhlangabezi Slayi: Centre for Global Change (CGC), Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa
Leocadia Zhou: Centre for Global Change (CGC), Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa
Admire Rukudzo Dzvene: Centre for Global Change (CGC), Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa
Zolisanani Mpanyaro: Department of Geography and Environmental Science, University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa

Land, 2024, vol. 13, issue 9, 1-22

Abstract: Land degradation is a major threat to sub-Saharan Africa rangelands, which are crucial for livestock farming and the livelihood of millions of people in the region. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the causes and effects of land degradation, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of different mitigation strategies. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we identified, screened, and analyzed 25 peer-reviewed articles published before 30 June 2024 using Scopus. The review highlights key factors that drive land degradation, such as soil erosion, drought, deforestation, and climate change, as well as socio-economic factors like poverty, land tenure issues, population pressure, and economic instability. These factors have serious implications, as land degradation can lead to poor quality of forage, an increased incidence of diseases, higher mortality rates among livestock, and a significant decline in livestock productivity. The socio-economic consequences of this degradation are significant, leading to reduced household income, increased poverty, and heightened food insecurity. Furthermore, the review assesses various mitigation strategies and concludes that practices such as rotational grazing and soil conservation techniques demonstrate high effectiveness, while agroforestry practices show only moderate success. An integrated approach that combines environmental, economic, and policy measures is crucial to addressing the complex challenge of land degradation in sub-Saharan Africa. Strengthening land tenure, improving economic stability, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices are essential steps toward improving the health of rangelands, increasing livestock productivity, and supporting the resilience and well-being of rural communities.

Keywords: rangeland degradation; livelihood; cattle production; pastoralists; land reform; sub-Saharan Africa (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:gam:jlands:v:13:y:2024:i:9:p:1402-:d:1468391

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