Assessing the role of draught animal power in enhancing livelihoods and wellbeing of farming households in Acholi Sub-Region

Abstract

Draught animal power (DAP) plays a critical role in agricultural systems in many developing regions, including the Acholi sub-region of Uganda. Understanding the effects of DAP on the livelihoods and well-being of farming households can inform policies and interventions aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and economic resilience. This study investigated the role of draught animal power (DAP) in enhancing the livelihoods and well-being of farming households in the Acholi sub-region of Uganda. Utilizing a sample of 200 participants from Gulu and Omoro districts, the study aimed to determine the factors influencing ownership, access and use of draught animals, assess the effects of DAP on agricultural livelihoods and describe the relationship between draught animal utilization and household well-being. Data were collected through semi structured questionnaires and analysed to understand demographic characteristics, ownership patterns, usage, and the effects of DAP on livelihoods and well-being. The findings revealed that 61% of participants own draught animals, primarily acquired through purchase, with cultural factors not significantly impeding ownership. DAP was predominantly used for opening fresh land and planting seeds, significantly enhancing agricultural productivity and financial stability. Households with draught animals have improved access to credit, but there is no significant association between draught animal use and household health outcomes. The study revealed a significant association between the current health condition of respondents and the ownership of draught animals (p=0.031).and individual who owned oxen did not receive any financial donations and 95.5%, (n=117) were able to access loans since the draught animals’ act as a security to enhance their livelihoods. This suggests that households with draught animals experience better health outcomes, potentially due to the reduced physical strain associated with manual farming tasks and the increased economic stability that enables better access to healthcare services These interventions aim to maximize the benefits of draught animal power, contributing to the economic resilience and overall welfare of rural communities in the Acholi sub-region and the household who owned oxen did not work for food in order for family to have meals. Encourage the integration of draught animal power with other appropriate technologies to enhance overall farm productivity.