Business opportunities along crocodile value chain: Case of crocodile farms in Malawi.

Abstract

The crocodile is one of the most commercially valuable animal species. Its utilisation in Africa, including Malawi, is based on ranched specimens. Despite the industry’s global recognition and economic potential, the production remains underdeveloped, hindered by a lack of comprehensive data. This study was therefore conducted to assess the business opportunities along the crocodile value chain in Malawi. The study specifically analysed the value chain map of the commercial crocodile farming; assessed the current status of the crocodile production, marketing and consumption; and examined types of investment required in crocodile commercialisation. A cross-sectional descriptive and explanatory research design was used. The data was collected using survey and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). Purposive and stratified sampling techniques were employed to select 100 survey respondents and 8 key informants from the targeted crocodile farms. The actors were farmers, suppliers, exporters, the government and local communities. The value chain stages ranged from input supply to production, processing and trading of crocodile products. The study noted Shire River and Nyika Crocodile farms housed 365 and 8700 crocodiles, respectively with 200 skins exported annually. The crocodile market shows growing demand, limited supply, intense competition and increasing meat consumption. Education levels, income levels, availability, personal preference, lifestyle and brand reputation were the main factors determined crocodile consumption. The critical investments required in the commercial crocodile value chain were land, feed and nutrition, labour and infrastructure. To capitalize on the promising opportunities, government agencies, entrepreneurs and investors should invest in key areas such as crocodile stock, feed and nutrition, labour and infrastructure. The Ministry of Agriculture and relevant departments should strengthen the capacities of underrepresented actors like processing plants and conservation organizations. The Ministry of Agriculture should assist in improving resource availability for crocodile farmers.