Research project AG420: understanding anthelmintic use in livestock in Bindura: a knowledge, attitudes and practices study among farmers and animal health professionals

Abstract

The objective of this study was to examine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of livestock farmers and animal health workers of the use of anthelmintics in Bindura District of Zimbabwe. The study was stimulated by the concerns to anticipate the improper use of anthelmintic drugs and the increasing problem of anthelmintic resistance in livestock production systems. A quantitative cross sectional research design was used and data gathered using structured questionnaires from the livestock farmers and animal healthcare providers. Farmers involved in cattle, goat, sheep and poultry farming and veterinary officers, animal health technicians and agricultural extension officers in Bindura District were the study population.350 questionnaires were sent to livestock farmers, and 332 completed questionnaires were returned, yielding a 94.9% response rate. A total of 20 questionnaires were sent to animal health professionals and 18 were returned yielding a 90% return. Descriptive statistical techniques such as frequencies and percentages were used to analyse the information that was collected. Moreover, a goodness of fit test, using a chi-square distribution, was conducted to determine whether or not there was statistical significance at the 5% level. The findings revealed that the majority of the farmers had a general knowledge about anthelmintics and recognized the necessity of regular deworming in animal husbandry. Despite this overall knowledge, there were concerns regarding A number of factors that prevented correct use of the anthelmintics were found such as the high cost of veterinary medicines, inadequate veterinary service availability, lack of knowledge about the use of the medicines by the farmers and irregular availability.