Assessing the factors affecting adoption of mastitis control practices among dairy farmers in Bwongyera, Rwanda and Rubare sub counties in Ntungamo district

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess adoption of mastitis control practices in Ntungamo district and determines the key drivers to the quantity of milk. The objectives of the study were: to characterise dairy farmers, to understand the milking techniques and practices used by dairy farmers, to understand mastitis testing and control measures used by dairy farmers, to identify factors influencing adoption of mastitis control measures by dairy farmers in Ntungamo District. The questionnaire was found to be reliable and the collected data was edited coded and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 6.0 and later transferred to Stata. In order to effectively analyse the primary quantitative data, descriptive statistics including percentages, frequencies, mean and standard deviation was used. Regression analysis was conducted to show the strength of the relationship between the dependent variables which included; animal separation from other animals and the dependent which include; age of the respondent, educational level, number of animals, type of breed, management practices. Presentation of quantitative data was done using percentages in tables, pie charts and graphs. The results were showing, socio-economic (demographic) factors such as age, gender, and education levels of the farmers; percentage of testing mastitis, what is used to control mastitis, breeds of cattle: exotic breeds, local breeds and others. The study concluded that good milking practices such as use of proper milking and storage equipment, milking under hygienic conditions to prevent the spread of mastitis and milk spoilage should be ensured. The study recommended that ministry of livestock devices strategies on how to reach the unable farmers who desire to improve their milking practices and mastitis control practices and reduce the rate of milk spoilage.