Factors affecting the quality of hides and skins at farm level district in Kalongo sub county, Nakasongola

Abstract

This study aimed at determining the factors that affect the quality of hides and skins in Kalongo sub county, Nakasongola district. Information was collected on selected livestock households and farms through questionnaire, interviews and direct observation. 31 participants were involved in the study and 48.39% (15/31) strongly believed that animal husbandry such as nutrition, breeding and selection, parasite and disease control and livestock branding affects the quality of hides and skins to a great extent, 29.03% (9/31) believed it affects to a moderate extent, 16.13 % ( 5 / 31 ) suggested it affects to a little extent and 6.45 % ( 2/31) didn't agree at all that animal husbandry affects the quality of hides and skins. The study identified various damages inflicted on hides and skins in Kalongo sub county and scratches counted for 45.16% whiplashes counted for 25.81%, hornlets were at 19.35% and other damages counted for 9.6%. The great effect of animal husbandry on the quality of hides and skins and the various damages inflicted on hides and skins calls for sensitization of rural farmers on the measures to minimize the damages inflicted on hides and skins through increased awareness campaigns.