{ "background": "Livestock insurance plays a crucial role in risk management for small-scale farmers, particularly in regions with high livestock mortality rates such as the East African Highlands. In Senegal, where climate variability and disease pose significant threats to livestock, understanding the effectiveness of insurance schemes is essential for enhancing agricultural productivity and economic stability.", "purposeandobjectives": "This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of livestock insurance schemes for small-scale farmers in the East African Highlands, focusing on their ability to mitigate risks and improve market access. The objectives are to assess farmer satisfaction with current insurance products, identify areas for improvement, and explore potential strategies for expanding coverage.", "methodology": "The research employs a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. A structured questionnaire was administered to farmers across Senegal's livestock-dependent regions, collecting data on insurance uptake, benefits received, and challenges faced. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with key informants including insurance providers and agricultural extension officers.", "findings": "The survey revealed that approximately 45% of surveyed farmers had purchased at least one livestock insurance product within the past year, indicating a moderate level of interest despite higher-than-expected premiums. Farmers highlighted inadequate coverage for major diseases as a significant barrier to full uptake.", "conclusion": "While there is potential for improved market access and risk mitigation through enhanced insurance products, current schemes face challenges related to affordability and disease-specific exclusions. Recommendations include expanding product offerings to cover more diseases and exploring subsidies or incentives to increase farmer participation.", "recommendations": "Developers of livestock insurance should consider incorporating a broader range of diseases into their coverage options to better protect farmers from major threats. Policymakers could explore financial mechanisms such as risk pools or government-funded subsidies to reduce the economic burden on small-scale producers.", "keywords": "Livestock Insurance, Small-Scale Farmers, East African Highlands, Market Access, Risk Mitigation", "contributionstatement": "This study provides novel insights into the effectiveness and market access challenges of livestock insurance
Sall et al. (Fri,) studied this question.