SWOT analysis of small ruminants production in West Bank-Palestine

Abstract

Small ruminant production is important but neglected resource, with multiple goals in West Bank-Palestine. This study aimed to develop the best strategies by exploiting the small ruminant sector opportunities and strengths while neutralizing its threats and avoiding its weaknesses in different production systems through different agro-ecological zones. To minimize the constraints and enhance the development of the small ruminants sub-sector in Palestine, strategies were suggested by using SWOT analysis. Analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of internal factors regarding its connection to resources, capabilities, core competencies and this sector’s external factors’ opportunities and threats are important not only to enhance the small ruminants’ keepers living conditions but also to ameliorate this region’s economy. The study was conducted at the Al-thaheryia and Facuoa sites. Subsequently, random sampling was done at the identified sites to select the small ruminant rearers who participated in the survey, 170 randomly selected small ruminant rearers targeted, 125 from Al-thaheryia and 45 from Facuoa, using the structured interview schedule. The study results point out that improved small ruminant production could be achieved by creating and enabling an environment that alleviates these constraints.