Assessing the knowledge and practices of cattle farmers on rational antimicrobial use and antimicrobial resistance in Soroti District

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing public health threat driven in part by irrational use of antimicrobials in livestock. This study aimed to assess knowledge, practices, and associated factors related to AMR among livestock farmers. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the months of June and July 2025 among 212 cattle farmers in Asuret, Lale and Kamuda sub counties of Soroti District using a structured questionnaire. Socio-demographic information, farm characteristics, recordkeeping practices, knowledge of AMU and AMR, awareness of drug residues and withdrawal periods, and preventive and treatment practices were recorded. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests to determine associations between AMR knowledge and demographic or farm-level factors. Only 53.3% of the farmers were aware of AMR. Male farmers, those with tertiary education, and individuals who sourced drugs from professionals had significantly higher awareness (p<0.05). Preventive practices such as parasite control (92.9%) and deworming (80.7%) were widely adopted, while only 14.6% reported vaccinating their animals. Although 91.9% claimed to follow veterinary recommendations, only 4.3% consistently documented antimicrobial use. Significant associations with AMR knowledge were observed for education level, sex, farming system, source of drugs, record keeping, and method of drug container disposal (p<0.05). The study found moderate awareness of AMR among farmers, with notable gaps in knowledge, antimicrobial stewardship, and preventive health practices. Efforts to improve farmer education, strengthen veterinary access, and promote responsible antimicrobial use are crucial in addressing AMR in livestock systems. These findings underscore the need for targeted farmer education and improved veterinary services in Soroti.