Stakeholders perceptions of effectiveness of community based animal health workers in Kotido district

Abstract

This study aimed at documenting stakeholder perceptions of effectiveness of CAHWs in Kotido district in Karamoja region. It was a qualitative cross-sectional study that targeted the CAHW service consumers (Pastoralists and Kraal leaders) and their supervisors (Veterinarians and CAHW leaders. The various stakeholders in the study had different opinions on the effectiveness of CAHWs in livestock health management in Kotido district. Most of the pastoralists, CAHW leaders and Kraal leaders said the CAHWs are effective in contrary to what the veterinarians in the district local government production department said that the CAHWs are not effective because of limited range of services they offer to the pastoralists either by regulations or limited knowledge about animal health management. The various stakeholders also had different opinions about the quality of services offered by the CAHWs. The pastoralists, CAHW leaders and the kraal leaders said the CAWHs offered good quality services as they are readily available, accessible and affordable to them in AHSD contrary to the DVO and the veterinary officers. A total of 60 pastoralists who were interviewed in the study using semi structured questioners revealed gender inequality in gender roles played in livestock production as most of the respondents were males 90.0% and only 10.0% were females. There was also high demand for the CAHWs as they were rated effective and most of the pastoralists are satisfied with the services of the CAHWs while the rest were not satisfied. The study concluded that there is high demand for the CAHWs, they are effective and provide good quality services to the pastoralist. CAHWs activities are key in animal health in remote areas where there are few veterinarians. Their activities and practices should be closely monitored and improved through conducting regular refresher trainings and training of more CAHWs for better professional development. The government, development agencies and institutions like COVAB should help in designing standard and uniformed training curricula for the CAHWs.