Operational Institutional Support Systems Contributing Towards the Continuity of Broiler Farming among Youth Producers

Broiler farming is essential for improved livelihoods through nutrient nourishment, food security, and employment provisions in our society. Broiler farming serves as a lifeline for most youth due to its cost-friendly initial startup capital and provides them with sustainable job opportunities. Various technical and production components are involved in promoting long-term broiler production, with the need to understand the interconnectedness of all the involved components fully. The current study sought to investigate institutional systems that critically and significantly influence the continuity of broiler farming among youth producers. The study was conducted in the Thulamela municipality of the Vhembe district, Limpopo province. Data was collected from a sample size of 118 youth broiler producers, selected using the simple random sampling technique. Structured questionnaires were administered during the in-person interviews with the study participants. The findings revealed that most participants were in broiler production for over three years, most owning their ventures under the partnership. The findings further revealed that institutional support systems relating to awareness and compliance with the governing legislation harmed the continuity of broiler production. Meanwhile, institutional support systems such as networking forums, weather forecasting services, and feed provision availability positively contributed to the sustainability of broiler production. The study recommends promoting legislation that governs livestock farming, including broilers, to young farmers, particularly emerging ones, for enhanced compliance with the said legislation.