Livestock Marketing Effect on Pastoralist Community's Economic Status in Ethiopia: Mediation by Market Intermediaries

Livestock marketing is a critical component of pastoralist communities, offering opportunities for economic growth and livelihood improvement. Understanding the relationships between Livestock Marketing, Marketing Intermediaries, and Pastoralist Economic Status is essential for effective policy-making and interventions. This study examines these relationships using data collected through surveys and interviews within pastoralist communities. Advanced statistical techniques, including mediation analysis, were employed to analyze the data. The findings reveal a strong and positive direct relationship between Livestock Marketing and both Marketing Intermediaries and Pastoralist Economic Status. Additionally, Marketing Intermediaries have a positive direct relationship with Pastoralist Economic Status. These results emphasize the importance of Livestock Marketing and the role of Marketing Intermediaries in supporting economic growth and empowering pastoralist communities. The implications of these findings for managers, policymakers, and practitioners are discussed, highlighting the need for interventions to enhance Livestock Marketing and support Marketing Intermediaries. Future research directions are also outlined, including longitudinal studies and investigations into contextual factors and sustainability aspects. Overall, this study contributes to the understanding of Livestock Marketing in pastoralist communities and provides insights for effective strategies to promote economic development and sustainable livelihoods.