Assessment of biosecurity implementation on broiler farms in selected parishes of Nkokonjeru Town Council, Buikwe District - Uganda

Abstract

This study assessed the implementation of biosecurity measures on broiler farms in selected parishes of Nkokonjeru Town Council, Buikwe District, Uganda. A cross-sectional design was employed, and data were collected over three weeks from 80 farms using a structured, closed-ended questionnaire administered to farm owners or managers. The analysis was conducted in R, employing descriptive statistics and logistic regression at a 5% level of significance. The findings revealed a high level of adoption of waste disposal measures, with composting (98.8%) and incineration (97.5%) widely practiced. However, critical entry biosecurity measures were inadequately implemented. While footbaths (83.8%) and fencing (60.0%) were relatively common, protective clothing was adopted by only 16.2% of farmers. Major barriers to adoption were economic and infrastructural, including lack of a manure market (95.0%), limited tools (90.0%), space constraints (80.0%), and financial limitations (77.5%). Despite awareness of biosecurity, all farms (100%) reported disease outbreaks, highlighting systemic failure in preventing poultry diseases. The study concludes that while farmers demonstrate commendable adoption of waste management protocols, entry-level biosecurity measures remain critically weak, and implementation is constrained by economic and logistical barriers. It recommends that farmers prioritize the use of protective clothing, local authorities establish manure collection and processing schemes, and government and development partners provide financing and market linkages to support biosecurity infrastructure. Strengthening these measures is essential for improving poultry health, reducing disease outbreaks, and enhancing the sustainability of broiler farming in Nkokonjeru Town Council.