Assessment of causes of injuries, their associated effects and common diseases affecting performance of draught animals in Acholi sub region

Abstract

Draught animal power (DAP) remains a critical asset in smallholder and subsistence farming systems, especially in rural regions like Northern Uganda. Despite their importance, draught animals often suffer from injuries and diseases that limit their productivity, reduce household income, and threaten food security. This study aimed to assess the nature of injuries sustained by draught animals, determine the frequency of diseases among draught animals and identify the coping strategies used by farming households against injuries and diseases in Acholi sub-region. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 136 farming households in Acholi sub-region. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, direct observations, and key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data using Microsoft Excel. A majority of respondents (87.5%) reported frequent injuries among their draught animals, with the back, chest, and neck being the most commonly affected body parts. The main causes of injuries were poor working conditions and the use of inappropriate harnesses. Tick-borne diseases, helminthiasis, and trypanosomiasis were the most prevalent illnesses, with over half of the respondents indicating that animals fell sick less than once a year. Injuries and diseases were found to significantly reduce draught animal performance, impacting ploughing capacity, speed, and endurance. In response, most farmers used home remedies, while fewer relied on veterinary services or traditional practices. Training on animal health management was limited, although most households provided basic shelter for their animals. Injuries and diseases among draught animals are prevalent and significantly impair their productivity in Acholi sub-region. Despite their heavy reliance on DAP, most households lack adequate technical knowledge and access to veterinary services. There is a need for targeted interventions to improve animal health and management practices.