The Effects of tick-borne diseases on small scale cattle farming in Murehwa district

Author

Mubaiwa, Rumbidzai

Title

The Effects of tick-borne diseases on small scale cattle farming in Murehwa district

Abstract

A significant biotic element affecting the production, handling, and management of livestock is cattle diseases; in particular vector borne diseases. In Murehwa district of Mashonaland East Province of Zimbabwe, a survey was undertaken to determine the effects of tick-borne diseases on small-scale farming. A questionnaire was utilized to gather data on the socio-demographics and general tick-related issues that cattle in the area were facing. Statistical analysis using descriptive analysis was carried out in SPSS version 20. The data was summarised in tables, graphs and charts. It was determined that diseases transmitted by ticks were the main cause of the deaths of cattle. The majority of farmers in Murehwa district (30.8%) own between 10 and 19 cattle, the largest herd size was above 60. 43.8% respondents encountered cattle deaths between the range of 1 and 5. Farmers (31.3%) lost between 6 and 10 cattle, and 20% of the farmers lost cattle above 10. Most farmers in the Murehwa district keep cattle for draught power and practice mixed farming. Knowledge on cattle dipping was 64.6%. The effectiveness of acaricides was hindered because not all ticks left their hosts after being dipped and few farmers followed dipping regimes. The researcher recommended for improved public awareness and the value of disease control especially to the community by using social media and radio.

Date

June 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Tick-borne disease

Theileriosis

Veterinary services

Supervisor

Mr T.N.C Mangwiro