Diagnosis of goat production systems in semi-desert conditions

Abstract

The objective of this research is to diagnose the agrarian conditions of farms dedicated to goat farming located in the southern coastal strip of Guantánamo province, determining the characteristics of the productive systems in the exploitation of goat herds, according to the edaphoclimatic characteristics of the area and the influence of management for feeding, reproduction and animal health. Methods such as direct observation, informal interviews with key actors, farm records and surveys were used, in addition to the SWOT matrix that allowed identifying the weaknesses, threats, strengths and opportunities for the development of an action plan that responds to improving efficiency in these semi-desert areas. This diagnosis is a valuable tool for characterizing goat farming in the study areas, which requires seeking management alternatives and being able to take advantage of the advantages offered by the environment of this strip.