DETERMINANTS OF CATTLE MARKET PRICE IN HAMMER WOREDA, DIMEKAMARKET, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study attempted to identify factors that can determine cattle price, in the south western parts of Ethiopia, particularly Dimeka market. The specific objective of the study were to identify market participant , looking in to the existing market facilities and identifying market actors that were assumed to affect the market price of cattle’s . In order to achieve these objectives, the study was utilized primary and secondary data from necessary sources. Trader’s survey in the form of pre-designed questioner and interviews were used. A total of Two months of traders’ survey was taken place (i.e. Eight market days). The collected data were analyzed in the form of both Descriptive and log linear Econometric analysis. Based on the result of the study, the Dimeka market were characterized by, lack of market facilities and service, there is inefficiency In the market, there were strong participants of pastoral traders and traders in the market, existence of fluctuation of cattle product during seasons like rainy and dry, festival and different holidays, significant difference in the volume of the market and availably of cattle product by time of transaction. Cattle price are influenced by variables like animal characteristics (i.e. sex, age, size …..), buyers type and time of transaction. Most of the time matured cattle’s are preferred than any other cattle’s. Cattle sellers would be benefited if they sell during Afternoon time period (6-8 hours period). Therefore, improving market facilities and services , improving market infrastructure like road and communication , provision of credit services, good extension services to pastoralist , designing of regular training for traders as well as producers (pastoralist) need to be given due attention . Further research on any other variables that can affect the cattle price and also the existing market performance in realizing the benefit of this huge resource would be necessary.