Livestock

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://104.225.218.216/handle/123456789/40

All Livestock research conducted by NARO over the years both at National and Zonal level is housed in this collection

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Abundance and Population Structure of Locally Useful Indigenous Woody Plants in a Sedentary Grazing System in South- Western Uganda
(Research Highlights in Agricultural Sciences, 2022-10-06) Nabasumba Dina; Kamwesigye Godfrey
This study engaged 100 pastoralists and conducted a plant inventory in 13.5 ha of grazing lands to determine the locally useful indigenous woody plant species, their abundance and population structure in a sedentary grazing system in South-western Uganda. Through descriptive and inferential statistics, 40 shrubs and 30 tree species were identified. The species were useful sources of animal medicine (85.7%), human medicine (80%), fodder and firewood (57.1%), poles (50%), timber (42.9%), shade (24.3%), food (21.3%) and raw materials for crafts (10%). Albizia coriaria, Acacia hockii, Acacia sieberiana, Carissa edulis and Vernonia amygdalina were the major woody plants used. For food and fodder, the woody plants were only utilized during the dry season but for other purposes, the species were resorted to any season in the year. Plant inventory recorded 39 woody plant species. Acacia hockii and Rhus natalensis existed in all the ranches and were the most abundant species (29.4% and 10.9% respectively). The average plant density was 35 trees/shrubs-ha. Inverse J shape, bimodal but mostly irregular pattern were the population structure types displayed. Thus, for sustainable sedentary pastoralism in Uganda, use of indigenous woody plant species requires policy supported conservation and enrichment planting, building the capacity of pastoralists in propagation and aided natural regeneration techniques for woody plants and scientific analyses to strengthen diversified use of the major woody plant species.
African Swine Fever Diagnosis in Africa: Challenges and Opportunities
(Pathogens, 2024-04-02) Mary-Louise Penrith; Juanita van Emmenes; Jean N. Hakizimana; Livio Heath; Tonny Kabuuka; Gerald Misinzo; Theophilus Odoom; Abel Wade; Habibata L. Zerbo; Pam D. Luka
The global spread of African swine fever (ASF) in recent decades has led to the need for technological advances in sampling and diagnostic techniques. The impetus for these has been the need to enable sampling by lay persons and to obtain at least a preliminary diagnosis in the eld for early control measures to be put in place before final laboratory confirmation. In rural Africa, rapid diagnosis is hampered by challenges that include lack of infrastructure as well as human and financial resources. Lack of animal health personnel, access to affordable means to transport eld samples to a laboratory, and lack of laboratories with the capacity to make the diagnosis result in severe under-reporting of ASF, especially in endemic areas. This review summarizes the challenges identified in gap analyses relevant to low- and middle-income countries, with a focus on Africa, and explore the opportunities provided by recent research to improve eld diagnosis and quality of diagnostic samples used. Sampling techniques include invasive sampling techniques requiring trained personnel and non-invasive sampling requiring minimal training, sampling of decomposed carcass material, and preservation of samples in situations where cold chain maintenance cannot be guaranteed. Availability and efficacy of point-of-care (POC) tests for ASF has improved considerably in recent years and their application, as well as advantages and limitations, are discussed. The adequacy of existing laboratory diagnostic capacity is evaluated and opportunities for networking amongst reference and other laboratories offering diagnostic services are discussed. Maintaining laboratory diagnostic efficiency in the absence of samples during periods of quiescence is another issue that requires attention, and the role of improved laboratory networking is emphasized. Early diagnosis of ASF is key to managing the disease spread. Therefore, the establishment of the Africa Chapter of the Global African Swine Fever Research Alliance (GARA) increases opportunities for collaboration and networking among the veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the region.
Assessing the knowledge and practices of smallholder pig farmers and associated risk factors for swine gastrointestinal disorders in Masindi district, Uganda
(Research Square, 2023-05-02) Samuel Majalija; Gabriel Tumwine; Juliet Kiguli; Benard Owori; Robert Alex Isabirye; Peter Waiswa
Background: Piggery production is a main income source for the rural poor in Uganda, where 1.3 million households own about 4.47 million pigs. Nonetheless, health challenges and lack of knowledge by the farmers affect the productivity and profits of the pig enterprises. Thus, this study determined the knowledge and practices among smallholder pig farmers and the associated risk factors for pig gastrointestinal disorders in Masindi district, Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a closed-end questionnaire interview of 170 smallholder pig farmers in the rural district of Masindi, from April to July 2020. The qualitative data was analyzed and presented as frequencies, percentages, and their 95% confidence intervals. Bivariate and multi-variate analysis were used to determine factors associated with GIT disorders. Results: Of the 170 farmers, males and females were equal (50%), mostly as pig owners (91.2%), rural folks (88.8%), who raised other animal species (72.9%) and with 5-10 years (72.4%) of experience. Of these, 67.6% were married, mainly in age ranges of groups 19-50 (90.6%) and 47.6% had attained primary school level. Pig rearing was for income generation (95.5%) and 79.4% reported GIT on their farms, affecting local breeds (57.0%) of all age groups and throughout the year. Similarly, a majority of the farmers identified common clinical signs associated with GIT, transmission routes and adherence to biosecurity practices. However, 62.9% treated the sick pigs, 40.6% sold the sick pigs and only 25.9% consulted a veterinarian. At multivariable logistic regression analysis, being a female farmer (p = 0.018, OR = 3.163, CI: 1.213, 8.244); mixing of different herds of pigs (p=0.003, aOR =4.141, 95%CI (1.317,13.013); feeding pigs on raw tubers (p=0.017, aOR=2.703, 95% CI (1.198,6.099) and scavenging (p <0.001, aOR= 9.605, 95%CI (2.131,43.289) were significantly associated with GIT. Conclusion: Poor husbandry practices especially feeding on raw tubers, scavenging and mixing of different herds of pigs were associated with widespread pig GIT disorders. Involving women in strategies to improve pig GIT health as equal partners is suggested. Farmers are encouraged to adopt confinement and housing of pigs as the minimum good husbandry practices for sustainable pig production.
Assessment of Adoption, Market Potential and Environmental Impact of Carbonized Briquettes Among Farmers in Western Uganda’s Beef-Producing Regions
(International Journal of Economy, Energy and Environment, 2023-06-04) Nakiganda Annuciate; Wamubirigwe Bernard; Mubiru Sarah; Bugeza James; Kigozi Abasi; Mugerwa Swidiq; Kigongo John; Stephen Kayiwa; Sserumaga Pyton; Namwanje Joan; Kivumbi Achileo; Serwadda Joseph; Kasule Hannah Talinda; Twesigye Annet
A lot of agricultural residues are generated each year in developing and developed countries. About 60-70% of the total Agricultural biomass is left in the fields annually in Uganda. Making Briquettes helps to turn waste into wealth, saves money and provides an alternative for firewood and charcoal. This study was developed to assess the adoption and market potential of carbonized briquette production among farmers in beef producing communities in Uganda. NARO introduced briquettes making in the beef producing communities of Isingiro, Mbarara and Masindi districts. After four months, an adoption study was conducted to determine how many farmers continued to produce, use and sell the briquettes. Approximately 58.2%, 50.6% and 66.7% farmers were found producing and using briquettes in Isingiro, Masindi and Mbarara districts respectively. Farmers mostly used cow dung (82%) as binders and charcoal dust (83%) as class B material. Over 93% farmers used briquettes to cook their food while 57.4% saved money on buying traditional fuels, and 49.5% mentioned that briquettes lasted longer while cooking respectively. Farmers in all the three districts produced 447.5 basins of briquettes which generated 6,712,500shs in revenue at a price of 15,000shs/basin of briquettes. Briquettes making can help the farmers in beef producing communities to earn income, while reducing agricultural waste, tree cutting and protecting the environment.
Bacillus- and Lactobacillus-Based Dietary Synbiotics Are Associated with Shifts in the Oropharyngeal, Proximal Colonic, and Vaginal Microbiomes of Korean Native Black Pigs
(Fermentation, 2023-04-06) Andrew Wange Bugenyi; Ki-Duk Song; Hak-Kyo Lee; Jaeyoung Heo
In this study, we evaluated the modulatory effect of synbiotics (probiotics + prebiotics) on the oropharyngeal, proximal colonic, and vaginal microbiomes of Korean native pigs using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. We found increased abundances of an unclassified deltaproteobacterial genus in oropharyngeal communities of pigs supplemented with a Lactobacillus-based synbiotic. These pigs also had increased abundances of unclassified genera of Tremblayales and Lactobacillales in their proximal colons. In another group, pigs supplemented with a Bacillus-based synbiotic had increased Megasphaera and reduced Campylobacter within their oropharyngeal microbiota. In addition, their vaginal microbiota had increased Clostridium and Halalkalibacillus, as well as reduced Filifactor and Veillonella. We then explored changes in the predicted microbial functionality, associated with the synbiotics. Our analysis showed a reduction in the abundance of a fatty acid and lipid biosynthesis pathway among proximal colonic microbiomes of the Lactobacillus-fed pigs. In pigs supplemented with a Bacillus-based synbiotic, the analysis showed reduced pathway abundances for the biosynthesis of carbohydrates, as well as vitamins, cofactors, and carrier molecules within their oropharyngeal microbiomes. Meanwhile, their vaginal microbiomes had higher pathway abundances for aromatic compound degradation and secondary metabolite biosynthesis, but lower abundances for amino acid degradation. The results confirmed our hypothesis that dietary synbiotics modulate the microbiome, not only in the proximal colon, but also the oropharyngeal cavity and vaginal tract of these pigs.
Bean Sprouts, Lettuce, and Milk as Water Sources in Tenebrio molitor Larval Growth
(Animals, 2024-03-14) Seokhyun Lee; Andrew Wange Bugenyi; Hakkyo Lee; Jaeyoung Heo
The Tenebrio molitor larva (yellow mealworm) holds great potential as a sustainable ingredient in food and feed. Optimizing its growth under mass farming requires careful water management. However, the availability and cost of fresh fruit and vegetables, which are the most widely used sources of water, can vary geographically, which calls for the search for relatively affordable, effective, and readily available alternatives. We evaluated the effect of three water sources (bean sprouts, lettuce leaves, and milk) as well as their quantity on weights and nutrient profiles of reared T. molitor larvae. Newly hatched mealworm larvae were maintained in controlled conditions of 25 ◦C and 60% relative humidity under a 12-h light–dark cycle for 15 weeks. When provided as sole-supplements, bean sprouts induced the highest larval weight gains compared to fresh lettuce leaves, which in turn performed better than milk and water. However, the addition of milk to the vegetable supplements enhanced growth. Furthermore, doubling the level of water supply resulted in 70% higher larval weights by week 14 post hatching. Moreover, water sources did not change the nutrient content of the harvested larvae. These findings suggest that mealworm productivity can be enhanced by increasing water feed levels and that bean sprouts may be a superior alternative to lettuce.
Co‐infections of respiratory pathogens and gastrointestinal parasites in smallholder pig production systems in Uganda
(Parasitology Research, 2023-02-22) Peter Oba; Barbara Wieland; Frank N. Mwiine; Joseph Erume; Michel M. Dione
A cross-sectional study was conducted to identify factors for infections of pigs with key respiratory pathogens: porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PPRSv), Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (M. hyo), Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (App), and gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in Uganda. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on management practices associated with infections. Ninety (90) farms and 259 pigs were sampled. Sera were screened against 4 pathogens using commercial ELISA tests. The Baerman’s method was used to identify parasite species in faecal samples. Logistic regression was done to identify risk factors for infections. Results showed individual animal seroprevalence of PCV2 was 6.9% (95% CI 3.7–11.1), PRRSv 13.8% (95% CI 8.8–19.6), M. hyo 6.4% (95% CI 3.5–10.5), and App 30.4% (95% CI 24.8–36.5). The prevalence of Ascaris spp. was 12.7% (95% CI 8.6–16.8), Strongyles spp was 16.2% (95% CI 11.7–20.7), and Eimeria spp. was 56.4% (95% CI 50.3–62.4). Pigs infested with Ascaris spp. were more likely to test positive to PCV2, odds ratio (OR) 1.86 (CI 1.31–2.60; p = 0.0002). For M. hyo, infection with Strongyles spp. was a risk factor (OR 12.9, p < 0.001). Pigs that had Strongyles and Ascaris spp. Infections (ORs 3.5 and 3.4, p < 0.001 respectively) were likely to have co-infections. The model showed that use of cement, elevated floor, and limiting contacts with outside pigs were protective while using mud and helminth infestations increased risks of co-infections. This study provided evidence that improved housing and biosecurity are critical in reducing pathogen incidence in herds.
Common invasive weed species in the central and south western rangelands of Uganda
(African Journal of Rural Development, 2023-04-10) E. ZZIWA; J. BUGEZA; S. MUBIRU; J. P. SSERUMAGA; M. KIGGUNDU; M. SEMWANGA; A. KIGOZI; N. KABANDA; M. KATTA; Z. NAMPIJJA; B. AGABA; Z. R. NABBANJA; S. MUGERWA
A study was conducted in the central and southwestern rangelands of Uganda covering the districts of Kiboga, Nakasongola, Nakaseke, Kyankwanzi, Masindi, Isingiro, Mbarara, Sembabule and Kiruhura, to identify the key invasive weed species that pose a threat to pasture and livestock production in the rangelands. Sampling points were established in five farms per district. The selected farms had relatively similar pasture and grazing management conditions (paddock grazing, continuous grazing and rested areas) which were then stratified in valley, slope, hill tops and improved pastures. A Modified-Whittaker sampling plot was used to collect the herbaceous vegetation, which was sorted, identified and counted to compute species diversity (richness and evenness), species dominance and similarity. A total of 33 herbaceous species were identified, with seven species being invasive (Sida rhombifolia, Urena lobata, Lantana camara, Mimosa pudica, Elephantopus scaber, Rivina humilis and Leonotis nepetifolia) and two common weeds (Amaranthus and Solanum incanum). There was high species diversity in all sampling areas, which is reflective of lack of concerted efforts in pasture production, but also an adaptive strategy to the precarious climatic conditions in the rangelands especially under low input production systems. Strategies should be made to establish drought tolerant and nutritious pastures; including designing and implementation of ecologically sound invasive weed control measures.
Economic losses associated with respiratory and helminth infections in domestic pigs in Lira district, Northern Uganda
(Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2023-06-16) Peter Oba; Michel Dione; Frank N. Mwiine; Barbara Wieland; Joseph Erume; Emily Ouma
This study sought to quantify direct economic losses due to respiratory and gastrointestinal (GI) helminth infections in domestic pigs in Uganda. In a longitudinal study design with repeated measures, farm visits were made at 2 month intervals from October 2018 to September 2019. Weaner and grower pigs (n = 288) aged 2–6 months from 94 farms were sampled. The pigs were monitored for growth and screened for exposure to four important respiratory pathogens: porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSv), Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (M. hyo), Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (App) using ELISA tests. Farm management practices were recorded and used to generate management level scores. Treatment expenses incurred were recorded throughout the study. A mixed effects model was fitted to quantify effects of respiratory and helminth infections on average daily weight gains (ADGs), with farm and pig as random effects. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine differences in mean treatment costs by farm management standard. Financial losses were estimated from average carcass dressing percentage, ADG reductions during fattening (200 days). Results showed a grower pig in a given farm exposed to PRRSv and Ascaris spp. had significantly lower ADG by 17.10 gr/day and 16.80 grams/day respectively, compared to a similar unexposed pig (p < 0.05). Mean treatment costs per pig declined significantly with increase in management standard scores (MSS), from USD 1.13 per pig in MSS 1 (poor management) farms to USD 0.95 for MSS 3 (better management) farms (p < 0.05). We show that monetary losses due to PRRSv and Ascaris spp. infection amounted to USD 6.6 ± 2.7 and 6.50 ± 3.2 (Mean ± SEM) per pig, respectively during 200 days of fattening. This study strengthens evidence that improving management practices to reduce infections mitigates economic losses. To guide interventions, further studies are required to unravel the full extent of indirect economic losses.
Effect of Injectable Moxidectin Treatment of Cattle on Prevalence and Strongyle Egg Output under Communal Grazing Management in Uganda
(pathologie parasitaire communication, 2002-05-11) J.W. Magona; G. Musisi
The effect of moxidectin on the prevalence of nematode infection in cattle, fecal egg output and pasture contamination of common pastures was assessed in Tororo district, Uganda. In the first experiment, a treated and an untreated group of 40 head of cattle each were monitored for a period of 12 weeks, while in the second experiment a treated and an untreated group of 30 head of cattle each were monitored for seven months. In the first experiment, the prevalence of nematode infections and mean fecal egg count (FEC) of the treated group remained significantly (P < 0.05) lower than that of the untreated group from day 7 to 84. In the second experiment, strategic treatments initially led to 100% reduction of FEC in the treated cattle as compared to 82% in the untreated one. Thereafter, mean FEC in the treated cattle remained below 60 for six months, while that in the untreated cattle fluctuated between 63 and 400, depending on the amount of rainfall. In addition, contamination with infective larvae on pasture of the treated cattle was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than that of the untreated group during the wet season. Infestation with Haemonchus spp., Bunostomum spp., Oesophagostomum spp. and Trichostrongylus spp. was three-, five-, four- and two-fold lower, respectively, on pasture in treated than in untreated cattle. Moxidectin could be used in strategic parasite control under communal grazing management in tropical Africa by selective treatment of the most affected cattle age-groups during the middle and end of the wet season to reduce the level of pasture contamination.
Effects of Administration of Prebiotics Alone or in Combination with Probiotics on In Vitro Fermentation Kinetics, Malodor Compound Emission and Microbial Community Structure in Swine
(fermentation, 2023-07-28) Maro Lee; Yeonjae Choi; Joel Bayo; Andrew Wange Bugenyi; Yangseon Kim; Jaeyoung Heo
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Lactobacillus amylovorus, L. plantarum, galacto-oligosaccharide (GOS) and their synbiotic formulations on pH, volatile fatty acids (VFA), malodor, and microbial ecological profiles through a 24-h in vitro fermentation model. Inclusion of GOS alone and in synbiotic combination with either probiotic resulted in consistently lower pH and higher total gas volumes at 12 and 24 h of incubation. Notably, concentrations of odorous compounds (hydrogen sulfide, H2S and methyl mercaptan, CH3SH) in the total gas produced were significantly lower in these GOS-containing treatments relative to the controls and probiotic-only-treated groups. However, although ammonia showed an initial relative reduction at 12 h, concentrations did not differ among treatments at 24 h. Further, the GOS-containing treatments had remarkably higher total and individual VFAs, including acetate, propionate, and butyrate, relative to controls and the probiotic-only treatments. Analysis of microbial composition and diversity showed clustering of GOS-containing treatments away from the controls and probiotic-only treatments at 12 and 24 h of incubation. Our study suggests that GOS supplementation (alone or in combination with L. amylovorus or L. plantarum probiotic strains) has the potential to increase VFA production in the swine gut while lowering emissions of malodorous compounds, except ammonia, in their manure.
Identification of a New Domestic Pig Cell Line for Growth of African Swine Fever Viruses for Vaccine Production in Uganda
(National Agricultural Research Organisation, 2024-05-17) Samuel Mulondo; Richard Ezinga; Daisy Iwutung; Richard M Kabaka; Moses Tefula Dhikusooka; Swidiq Mugerwa; Tonny Kabuuka
In this study, a basis for the feasibility of a successful ASF vaccine design program using live attenuated vaccines was sought. One of the challenges to African swine fever (ASF) vaccine development is having a cell line that will provide commercial utility for vaccine production. We set out to address this problem by innovatively identifying possible cell lines from local domestic pigs in the country. Eight tissue types from ASF-negative animals were identified for incorporation into cell line development. These were degraded, incubated, and monitored for cell growth. One cell line, the SIR2-P, grew consistently and confluently and was tested for the ability to grow and isolate field ASF viruses. We report the isolation of ASF viruses in our laboratory for the first time. The P9C virus from Namayingo district exhibited the largest plaque sizes compared to the SQ517B virus from Mukono. The innovative identification of the SIR2-P cell line is proof of concept that newer species- specific cell lines can be developed in the Infectious Animal Disease Laboratory (IADL), and utilized to study other animal viruses like Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) virus, Foot and mouth disease (FMD) virus, and Swine Influenza. Such cells can be used in vaccine production for other endemic diseases in Uganda. The SIR2-P cell line is currently at passage 65.
Inspiring Anti-Tick Vaccine Research, Development and Deployment in Tropical Africa for the Control of Cattle Ticks: Review and Insights
(Vaccines, 2022-12-31) Paul D. Kasaija; Marinela Contreras; Halid Kirunda; Ann Nanteza; Fredrick Kabi; Swidiq Mugerwa; José de la Fuente
Ticks are worldwide ectoparasites to humans and animals, and are associated with numerous health and economic effects. Threatening over 80% of the global cattle population, tick and tick-borne diseases (TTBDs) particularly constrain livestock production in the East, Central and Southern Africa. This, therefore, makes their control critical to the sustainability of the animal industry in the region. Since ticks are developing resistance against acaricides, anti-tick vaccines (ATVs) have been proposed as an environmentally friendly control alternative. Whereas they have been used in Latin America and Australia to reduce tick populations, pathogenic infections and number of acaricide treatments, commercially registered ATVs have not been adopted in tropical Africa for tick control. This is majorly due to their limited protection against economically important tick species of Africa and lack of research. Recent advances in various omics technologies and reverse vaccinology have enabled the identification of many candidate anti-tick antigens (ATAs), and are likely to usher in the next generation of vaccines, for which Africa should prepare to embrace. Herein, we highlight some scientific principles and approaches that have been used to identify ATAs, outline characteristics of a desirable ATA for vaccine design and propose the need for African governments to investment in ATV research to develop vaccines relevant to local tick species (personalized vaccines). We have also discussed the prospect of incorporating anti-tick vaccines into the integrated TTBDs control strategies in the sub-Saharan Africa, citing the case of Uganda.
Leveraging on Flock Dynamics and Farmers’ Production Constraints in Designing Flock Health Program for Accelerated Goat Production
(Open Journal of Veterinary Medicine, 2023-11-21) Williams Guma; Sylvester Dickson Baguma; Lydia Patricia Asekenye; Ivan Tumwesige
Compliance with appropriate flock health program is vital for preventing introduction and minimizing impact of diseases in goat farms. Unfortunately, most goat farms in Uganda, especially in the Albertine Graben Zone lack flock health program. The associated frequent outbreaks slow down effort aimed at commercializing goat production. In this study, we documented flock dynamics, identified and prioritized pressing challenges experienced by goat farms during the year 2022 and generated appropriate flock health program and packaged it for dissemination to farmers. Materials and Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, semi-structured questionnaire, data were collected and analyzed with MS Excel 2013. The data included: location and socio-demographics of household, farming system, flock dynamics, housing, feeding system, health management, challenges encountered by goat farm and suggested solutions. Results: Beginning January 2022 to December 2022, the number of goats reared in all the 45 sample farms increased from 2128 to 2220 goats. Results showed that 884 kids were produced and 88 breeding goats were introduced into the farms. Three hundred ninety-nine goats died due to mainly diseases and 435 goats got withdrawn through nondeath. The average farm level and overall mortality rate were 21 goats per 1000 goatmonths and 15 goats per 1000 goatmonths respectively. The most pressing challenges encountered by sample farms were death of goats especially due to diseases, poor access to veterinary extension services, high cost of inputs and feed scarcity. Solutions suggested by sample farms were improved access to veterinary services, improved housing, enhanced vaccination of goats against diseases, and enhanced grazing land management and feed conservation, all of which were incorporated into the flock health program. Conclusion and Recommendations: An appropriate flock health program was generated based on flock dynamics and production constraints which reveal high mortality and limited access to veterinary services respectively. Actors are recommended to promote adoption and adherence to the flock health program so as to increase goat production and access to wider market.
Livelihood profiles and adaptive capacity to manage food insecurity in pastoral communities in the central cattle corridor of Uganda
(Scientific African, 2022-07-08) Maureen Nanziri Mayanja; John Morton; James Bugeza; Akiiki Rubaire
Adaptive capacity is the capabilities, resources and institutions of a country or region to implement effective adaptation measures. This article aims to highlight pastoral communities’ differential adaptive capacity to buffer household food insecurity. We use mixed methods including case households and key informants to provide qualitative data on determinants of adaptive capacity. Subsequently cluster analysis is applied to combine survey data from respondent households on the basis of the livelihood capitals. Three distinct, heterogeneous livelihood profiles are identified. The Minimally-endowed face uncertain ac- cess to livelihood capitals; Large-herd Landlords are endowed with physical and financial capital – ownership of land and large numbers of livestock; while the Land-rich are endowed with natural capital - access to large sizes of land. This denotes different types of adaptive capacity and underscores the need for agricultural extension, technology transfer and other interventions to be differentiated based on the variance in adaptive capacity and challenges of the existing heterogeneous livelihood clusters. We argue that if such differences are not first identified, development strategies including those of agricultural ex- tension could fail in their attempts to ensure sustainable household food security. Rather than being a homogenous community, pastoralists in the central cattle corridor of Uganda belong to three heterogeneous livelihood profile clusters. Each cluster is differentially endowed with livelihood capitals which denote different types of adaptive capacity. As an empirical study done at household level, this work contributes insights that can be considered in designing and undertaking studies of other rural communities, prior to planning and execution of interventions.
Mechanisms of Arsenical and Diamidine Uptake and Resistance in Trypanosoma brucei
(EUKARYOTIC CELL, 2003-10-04) Enock Matovu; Mhairi L. Stewart; Federico Geiser; Reto Brun; Pascal M ̈aser; Lynsey J. M. Wallace; Richard J. Burchmore; John C. K. Enyaru; Michael P. Barrett; Ronald Kaminsky; Thomas Seebeck; Harry P. de Koning
Sleeping sickness, caused by Trypanosoma brucei spp., has become resurgent in sub-Saharan Africa. Moreover, there is an alarming increase in treatment failures with melarsoprol, the principal agent used against late-stage sleeping sickness. In T. brucei, the uptake of melarsoprol as well as diamidines is thought to be mediated by the P2 aminopurine transporter, and loss of P2 function has been implicated in resistance to these agents. The trypanosomal gene TbAT1 has been found to encode a P2-type transporter when expressed in yeast. Here we investigate the role of TbAT1 in drug uptake and drug resistance in T. brucei by genetic knockout of TbAT1. Tbat1-null trypanosomes were deficient in P2-type adenosine transport and lacked adenosine-sensitive transport of pentamidine and melaminophenyl arsenicals. However, the null mutants were only slightly resistant to melaminophenyl arsenicals and pentamidine, while resistance to other diamidines such as diminazene was more pronounced. Nevertheless, the reduction in drug sensitivity might be of clinical significance, since mice infected with tbat1-null trypanosomes could not be cured with 2 mg of melarsoprol/kg of body weight for four consecutive days, whereas mice infected with the parental line were all cured by using this protocol. Two additional pentamidine transporters, HAPT1 and LAPT1, were still present in the null mutant, and evidence is presented that HAPT1 may be responsible for the residual uptake of melaminophenyl arsenicals. High-level arsenical resistance therefore appears to involve the loss of more than one transporter.
Monitoring the Subolesin Vaccine Field Trial for Safer Control of Cattle Ticks Amidst Increasing Acaricide Resistance in Uganda
(Vaccines, 2022-09-22) Fredrick Kabi; Moses Dhikusooka; Moses Matovu; Swidiq Mugerwa; Paul Kasaija; Patrick Emudong; Halid Kirunda; Marinela Contreras; Christian Gortazar; Jose De la Fuente
A collaboration program was established between the group of Health and Biotechnology (SaBio) of the IREC Institute of Game and Wildlife Research (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Spain) and the National Agricultural Research Organization of Uganda (NARO) for the development of vaccines for the control of cattle ticks in Uganda. Controlled pen trials identified a tick protective antigen, Rhipicephalus appendiculatus Subolesin, and a cross-species-effective vaccine formulation. As the next step, a controlled vaccine field trial has been approved by Ugandan state regulatory authorities, the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST) and the National Drug Authority (NDA), to evaluate the efficacy and effectiveness of the vaccine formulation for the control of cattle tick infestations under field conditions. The results of this trial may lead to the approval of the vaccine for application in Uganda to improve cattle health and production while reducing the use of acaricides.
Retrospective Multi-Locus Sequence Analysis of African Swine Fever Viruses by “PACT” Confirms Co-Circulation of Multiple Outbreak Strains in Uganda
(Animals, 2023-12-24) Tonny Kabuuka; Henry Mulindwa; Armanda D. S. Bastos; Juanita van Heerden; Livio Heath; Folorunso O. Fasina
African swine fever (ASF) is a haemorrhagic fever of swine that severely constrains pig production, globally. In Uganda, at least 388 outbreaks of ASF were documented from 2001 to 2012. We undertook a retrospective serological and molecular survey of ASF virus (ASFV) using banked samples collected from seven districts (Pallisa, Lira, Abim, Nebbi, Kabarole, Kibaale, and Mukono) of Uganda. Six assays (ELISA for antibody detection, diagnostic p72 gene PCR and genomic ampli cation, and sequencing of four gene regions (p72 [P], p54 [A], CVR of the 9RL-ORF [C], and TK [T]), hereinafter referred to as P-A-C-T (PACT)) were evaluated. Antibodies to ASFV were detected in the Abim district (6/25; 24.0%), and the remainder of the serum samples were negative (187/193; 96.9%). For the tissue samples, ASFV detection by assay was 8.47% for P, 6.78% for A, 8.47% for C, and 16.95% for T. The diagnostic PCR (p72 gene) detected seven positive animals from four districts, whereas the TK assay detected ten positives from all seven districts. In addition to the superior detection capability of TK, two virus variants were discernible, whereas CVR recovered three variants, and p72 and p54 sequencing each identi ed a single variant belonging to genotype IX. Our results indicate that dependence on serology alone underestimates ASF positivity in any infected region, that multi-locus sequence analysis provides better estimates of outbreak strain diversity, and that the TK assay is superior to the WOAH-prescribed conventional p72 diagnostic PCR, and warrants further investigation.
Seed Production Aspects of Macroptilium atropurpureum cv. Siratro in Uganda
(JOURNAl OF APPLIED SEED PRODUCTION, 1997-04-09) P. Lusembo; C. Ebong; E.N. Sabiiti; J.S. Mugerwa
The effect of support height on seed yield components and seed quality of Macroptifium atropurpureum cv. Siratro was determined. Plants were sown at a spacing of 1 m x 1 m in a complete randomised block design replicated four times and staked at 0, 1, 2 and 3 metres high. Support significantly increased the number of inflorescences per plant (P<0.01), flowers per inflorescence (P<0.01), pods per seed head (P<0.01), seeds per pod (P<0.05), weight of 100 seeds (P<0.05), and seed yield per square metre (P<0.01). The number of inflorescences per plant and seed yield (g m') were highly correlated with support height, N=0.98 and 0.97, respectively. Staking significantly (P<0.05) improved the germination rate and percentage of the harvested seed.
Sero-prevalence and factors associated with anti-Brucella antibodies in slaughter livestock in Uganda
(Frontiers in Epidemiology, 2023-06-29) James Bugeza; Kristina Roesel; Ignacio Moriyon; Denis Mugizi; Lordrick Alinaitwe; Velma Kivali; Clovice Kankya; Elizabeth Anne Jessie Cook
Introduction: Brucellosis is endemic in Uganda and is a major cause of production losses in livestock. Early detection and quantification of the disease is vital for its control and eradication. The aim of this study was to assess the sero-prevalence and factors associated with anti-Brucella antibodies in slaughtered livestock. Materials and methods: Sera from 886 cattle, 925 small ruminants, and 900 pigs were collected from regional abattoirs in Northern, Eastern and Central Uganda. To estimate sero-prevalence, sera were serially tested using a combination of the Rose Bengal Test (RBT) and Native Hapten (NH) immunoprecipitation test. True sero-prevalence was estimated using the Rogan-Gladden estimator considering the sensitivity and specificity of the NH immunoprecipitation test. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with seropositivity for anti-Brucella antibodies. Results and discussion: Small ruminants showed the highest seroprevalence (6.7%, 95% CI = 4.2-7.1) followed by cattle (3.8%, 95% CI = 2.4-4.9) and pigs (2.8%, 95% CI = 1.1-2.9). Seropositivity for anti-Brucella antibodies was associated with region of origin (OR=4.6,95%CI=1.49-17.75, p=0.013) for cattle; sex (OR=2.90, 95% C= 1.5-6.34, p=0.004), age (OR=4.04, 95% CI=1.07-8.52, p=0.006) and species (OR = 2.53, 95% CI = 1.08-6.98, p = 0.048) for small ruminants; and finally sex for pigs (OR=2.88, 95% CI=1.07-8.52, p=0.041). Progressive control interventions must include both cattle and small ruminants since they play a bigger role in the maintenance and dissemination of Brucella. The interventions should adopt a risk- based approach with regions at higher risk being given top priority. Bacteriological and molecular studies should be undertaken to clarify the role of pigs and the goat-cattle cross infections in the epidemiological cycle of brucellosis in Uganda.

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