Determinants of household’s choice of livelihood diversification strategies in Chobe district, Botswana

Abstract

To ensure reduced poverty levels and improved standard of living, the government of Botswana is aiming at diversifying its economy from mining to agriculture, industry, manufacturing, services and tourism. However, there is no quantitative empirical evidence to guide the development of policy strategies for livelihood diversification hence the need for research-based evidence on factors that influence households’ choice of livelihood diversification strategies in the Chobe District. Primary data was collected from three villages in Chobe District and analyzed using multinomial logit model. The determinants of diversification are age, income, market access, land ownership, farm size and access to extension services. The diversification of rural livelihood strategies is important in reducing rural poverty and promoting asset and wealth diversification. Based on the results, there is need to improve households’ market access and land ownership. In addition, younger members of the community should be educated and trained in tourism-based activities for profitable diversification.