Department of Animal Production and Management
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Item Determination of the survivability of mealworm larvae reared on maize bran, rice bran, brewer’s waste and sweet potato peelings.(Busitema University, 2026) Emenyu, ThomasThis study determined the survivability of yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) larvae reared on different agricultural and agro-industrial substrates under controlled experimental conditions at the Busitema University Arapai Campus Insect Farming Unit. A completely randomized design was used with seven substrate treatments: 100% maize bran, 100% rice bran, 100% brewer’s waste, 100% sweet potato peelings, and 50:50 mixtures of rice bran, brewer’s waste and sweet potato peelings with maize bran. Each treatment had three replicates, with 50 larvae per replicate, giving 150 larvae per treatment. Larval survival was monitored weekly for 10 weeks. Descriptive statistics and a linear mixed-effects model were used to evaluate treatment, rearing week and treatment-by-week interaction effects. Mean survival across treatments ranged from 89.7% for 100% brewer’s waste to 96.1% for both 100% sweet potato peelings and the 50:50 sweet potato peelings–maize bran mixture. The overall treatment effect was not statistically significant (F(6,14) = 2.50, p = .074), so no single substrate could be declared generally superior on the basis of overall survival. However, rearing week significantly affected survival (F(9,126) = 63.82, p < .001), and the treatment-by-week interaction was also significant (F(54,126) = 3.97, p < .001). In later weeks, the sweet potato–maize mixture showed higher survival than maize bran, while brewer’s waste showed lower survival than maize bran. The study concludes that the tested local materials can support mealworm larval production, with sweet potato peelings and their mixture with maize bran showing promise for further evaluation. Future studies should increase replication, analyze substrate nutrient and moisture composition, and follow larvae through the complete life cycle to distinguish mortality from pupation. The findings are practically useful because they indicate that sweet potato peelings, alone or mixed with maize bran, deserve further testing as locally available mealworm substrates, while brewer’s waste requires closer attention to handling and composition.Item Evaluating the effect of tylosin on the anthelmintic efficacy of albendazole in chicken at Arapai farm-Busitema university, Soroti district.(Busitema University, 2026) Okuni, JosephGastrointestinal helminthiasis continues to pose a threat to the health and production of poultry in Uganda. On the contrary, the farmers tend to administer both albendazole and tylosin drugs for managing the parasites and bacterial diseases respectively. Little has been done and information relating to efficiency of co administration of albendazole and tylosin in poultry is lacking. In the present study the effect of simultaneous administration of tylosin and albendazole in experimentally infected chickens was investigated the experiment was held for one month for sample data collection. Thirty (30) infected chickens were randomly allotted to three groups of ten (10) chickens each and treated with a combination of albendazole and Tylosin, Albendazole alone and the negative control group was treated with the saline. The average count per gram of faeces was calculated prior and the last day of the experiment using modified McMaster technique. The combination brought about a reduction of the parasite egg count by a ratio 280.00 times greater than the control and only the ratio achieved by Albendazole alone treatment groups was 235.00: 130.00 in the test and control group. Treatment groups showed greater and significant decrease in the parasite egg counts than the control group (p<0.05). Upon further observation no significant difference in performance of treatment groups was found and it can be concluded that simultaneous administration of albendazole and Tylosin will be both safe and effective in production flock.Item Determination of growth performance of house crickets (Acheta domesticus) reared on banana peelings.(Busitema University, 2026) Mwende, JoshuaThis study was conducted to determine the growth performance, feed utilization, survival, egg laying and hatching of house crickets (Acheta domesticus) reared on banana substrate. The experiment was carried out at Busitema University, Faculty agriculture and Animal Sciences, Arapai Campus, over a period of eight weeks. Three feeding treatments were used: 100% maize bran (T1), 100% banana peelings (T4), and a mixture of 50% maize bran and 50% banana peelings (T9). The experiment followed a completely randomized design with three replicates per treatment. A total of 450 crickets were used, with 50 crickets stocked in each replicate. Data were collected on weekly weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, survival rate, days to first laying, laying-to-mortality interval and days to egg hatching. The data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance at a significance level of 5%. The results showed that the type of substrate affected cricket performance. Crickets fed on 100% maize bran recorded the highest total weight gain (8.68 g), the best overall feed conversion ratio (1.03) and the highest survival rate at week eight (44.7%). Banana peeling based diets recorded lower growth and survival, with T9 having the lowest survival rate (27.3%) and the poorest overall FCR (3.01). However, crickets fed on banana peelings reached sexual maturity earlier. The average days to first laying were 49.33 days for maize bran, 46.00 days for banana peelings and 43.00 days for 50:50 (banana and maize bran), with a significant difference among treatments (p = 0.044). Differences in laying-to-mortality interval and days to egg hatching were not statistically significant. The study concludes that maize bran was the most suitable substrate among those tested for producing heavier and more surviving crickets, while banana peelings showed potential for promoting earlier sexual maturity. Banana peelings may therefore be considered as a supplementary feed ingredient, particularly were reducing feed costs and promoting early breeding are important. Further studies should investigate different levels of banana-peeling inclusion, larger numbers of replicates, and the nutritional and economic value of the substrates.Item Socio-Cultural, institutional and policy factors influencing adoption and scaling of feed technologies among smallholder livestock farmers in Arapai sub-county.(Busitema University, 2026) Ayesiga, BrendahThis study examined the socio-cultural, institutional, and policy factors associated with the adoption and scaling of livestock feed technologies among smallholder livestock farmers in Arapai Sub- County, Soroti District. A concurrent mixed-methods design was used. Quantitative data were collected from 381 smallholder livestock farmers using a structured questionnaire, while qualitative information was obtained at the same time through semi-structured interviews with key informants. Quantitative data were summarized using frequencies and percentages, and chi-square tests and binary logistic regression were used to examine factors associated with current adoption. Qualitative information was analyzed thematically, after which the two sets of findings were compared through triangulation. Most respondents (87.9%) had adopted at least one feed technology. Gender was not significantly associated with adoption. Limited access to inputs and seeds was associated with adoption in the bivariate analysis (χ² = 9.990, p = 0.002), but this association was not retained in the multivariable model (p = 0.259). Policy awareness and policy familiarity were also not significantly associated with current adoption. The qualitative findings, however, showed that farmers frequently referred to peer learning, traditional and community knowledge, extension and farm outreach, institutional support, and gaps in policy information. Taken together, these results show that adoption in the study area is influenced by several issues rather than by one factor alone. If the technologies are to reach more farmers, there is a need to strengthen farmer-to-farmer learning, practical extension support, access to inputs, and communication about relevant policies and programs.Item Studying the association between livestock mobility, herd demographic structure and retention of indigenous goats, sheep and cattle among the livestock keeping households in Kotido and Katakwi districts of Uganda.(Busitema University, 2026) Oryem, Johnathan LotyangThis study assessed livestock mobility practices and its relationship with herd demographic structure and retention of indigenous cattle, goats and sheep among livestock-keeping households in Katakwi and Kotido districts of Uganda. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 households, with 100 households selected from each district. Data on household characteristics, livestock composition, herd structure and mobility practices were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed in RStudio. A composite mobility index was constructed from distance to seasonal grazing areas, number of seasonal grazing sites and annual movement frequency. Descriptive and inferential analyses included Kruskal-Wallis, dunn’s test, chi-square and multivariable regression analyses, including binary logistic regression. Livestock mobility differed significantly between the sub-regions, with Kotido households undertaking more extensive movements than those in Katakwi (χ² = 13.66, p = 0.0002). Herd size increased significantly with mobility, from a median of 3.3 TLU among sedentary households to 6.7 TLU among limited-mobility and 19.3 TLU among highly mobile households (H(2) = 46.138, p < 0.001, ε² = 0.318). Highly mobile households had significantly greater odds of retaining indigenous cattle (OR = 7.522, p = 0.016), whereas indigenous goat and sheep retention were not significantly associated with mobility. Breed composition also differed significantly between Kotido and Katakwi districts for cattle, goats and sheep. However, after adjustment for districts, household size, years of livestock keeping and household income, the association between continuous mobility and total herd size was no longer statistically significant (B = 0.515, p = 0.092), although the model explained 63.3% of variation in log-transformed herd size (R² = 0.633; n = 139).The study concludes that livestock mobility is strongly associated with herd size and indigenous cattle retention, but its independent association with total herd size is influenced by household and district factors. The study recommends mobility-sensitive livestock development and community-based conservation and breeding programmes that promote locally adapted indigenous cattle while tailoring genetic improvement strategies to the production systems of Kotido district (pastoral) and Katakwi district (Agro-pastoral).Item Factors responsible for the poor quality of hides and skins in Kasasira subcounty, Kibuku district.(Busitema University, 2025) Kaanyi, MonicaHides and skin are one of the key products derived from livestock with application in various industries as a raw material especially in fashion and design. Poor quality of hides and skin is a limiting factor to the development of leather industry in Uganda. The quality of hides and skin is greatly influenced by several pre- and post-slaughter factors which are the key determinants of its acceptability both in home and foreign market. This study aimed to investigate these factors, assess farmers’ awareness and knowledge of hide and skin quality and identify skins and hides defects among animals slaughtered in Kasasira sub-county, Kibuku district, Uganda. In this cross-sectional study, questionnaires and observation checklists were used to collect data about the above objectives This study involved a total of 168 respondents, 69% of which were male and 31% females who to which questionnaires with structured questions were administered. It is noteworthy that 97% were farmers, 4.2% livestock traders, 3% abattoir (Slaughter slab/ground) workers and 1.2% veterinary personnel. This study revealed very low awareness levels about the hides and skin quality which would be worrying for the industry. Results of this study highlighted several critical factors affected the quality of hides and skins including ectoparasites, diseases, poor transportation, poor animal husbandry practices, informal slaughter techniques, poor slaughter facilities etc. Scratches were the most identified defects in all cattle slaughtered with about 74% showing scratches. These were followed by 49.4%, 39.5% and 36.2% thin hides on slaughter, beating/wipe marks and with external parasite defects like ticks’ marks respectively. These results were similar to preslaughter defects found in goat skins. Wounds/scars and scratches were the most found defects. Contamination of hides and skins was the principal post slaughter defect identified in all the slaughter places with over 70% of the hides and skins contaminated with dirt and litter. These were followed by flay cuts and bruises accounting for 56.9% and 53.6% of the hides respectively. While gouge marks were the second most identified defects in 43.2% of the skins. There is need to implement proper animal husbandry practices including adequate healthcare, proper feeding and handling dehorning by farmers, capacity building trainings conducted for farmers, slaughter house workers, traders and handlers of skins and hides. And the leather industry should develop and implement quality control measures to ensure that hides and skins meet certain standards for quality and value.Item Risk factors for the occurence of African swine fever in Patongo town council, Aago county.(Busitema University, 2025) Lubangakene, AndrewBackground: African Swine Fever (ASF) is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease causing significant economic losses in the pig industry. In Patongo Town Council, Agago District, persistent ASF outbreaks have severely impacted smallholder pig farmers. However, the key risk factors facilitating the transmission of the disease in this specific area are not well- defined. This study aimed to evaluate the key risk factors explaining the occurrence of ASF, with a specific focus on poor biosecurity measures, the uncontrolled pig trading system, variations in production systems, and fomite-transmission routes. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in four parishes (Pece, Akomo, Forest, and Oporot) where pig rearing is a primary livelihood activity. The target population included smallholder pig producers, veterinary officers, and other stakeholders. Data were collected using a mixed-methods approach, including structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and direct field observations to assess farm-level risk factors and transmission dynamics. Checklists were employed to evaluate biosecurity compliance and patterns of pig movement. Descriptive statistical analyses were conducted to determine significant relationships between the identified risk factors and ASF occurrence. Results: The analysis identified several key risk factors significantly associated with ASF occurrence. Critical gaps in biosecurity measures were observed, including a lack of perimeter fencing, non-disinfection of equipment, and unrestricted visitor access. The uncontrolled pig trading system, characterized by informal movements and the trade of sick or asymptomatic pigs, was a major transmission pathway. Variations in production systems, particularly free- ranging and tethering practices, increased pigs' exposure to contaminated environments and wild suids. Furthermore, fomite transmission via contaminated vehicles, equipment, and footwear was a substantial contributor to the spread of the virus between farms and localities. Conclusively, the persistence of African Swine Fever in Patongo Town Council is driven by a combination of poor biosecurity, an unregulated trading system, high-risk production practices, and fomite transmission. The findings from this study are highly beneficial for policymakers, veterinarians, and pig producers. To reduce ASF transmission, effective disease prevention strategies must be designed, focusing on enhancing on-farm biosecurity protocols, formalizing and controlling the pig movement and trade, and promoting safer production systems. Improving the control of ASF is fundamental to promoting the sustainability of pig production and safeguarding livelihoods in the region.Item The effect of different cattle housing systems on milk yield and health among smallholder dairy farmers of Kawowo sub- county, Kapchorwa district.(Busitema University, 2025) Kanziran, ChebetDairy farming contributes to global food security, household incomes and rural development. It provides not only milk and dairy products for human nutrition but also income, employment and farm yard manure for growing of crops (Grout et al., 2020). However, the productivity of dairy cattle varies depending on multiple factors, including genetics, nutrition, healthcare and management practices. Among these, cattle housing plays a fundamental role in ensuring animal welfare, disease prevention, and overall milk production. The productivity and health of dairy cows however are heavily influenced by the type and quality of housing provided. Proper housing reduces exposure to harsh weather, minimizes disease risks and promotes animal comfort which in turn enhances milk yield (Astiz et al., 2014). In developed countries like India, United State of America and Denmark, advanced housing systems such as free-stall barns, tie-stall barns, and compost-bedded pack barns are widely adopted and have been associated with improved cow welfare and higher milk production (Weary et al., 2015). In sub-Saharan Africa, smallholder dairy farming dominates the sector, accounting for most of the milk production. However, productivity remains low due to various reasons, among which poor cattle housing is a major contributor. Evaluating the effect of different cattle housing systems on milk yield and health among smallholder dairy farmers in a given area can inform relevant stakeholders to design targeted intervention to improve animal production. This study was to evaluate the effect of different cattle housing systems on milk yield and health among smallholder dairy farmers in Kawowo Sub county, Kapchorwa district in Uganda. The study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional design to collect quantitative data among 108 randomly selected farmers in the sub county. Pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used during data collection. The collected was entered in Microsoft excel 2013, cleaned, and imported to Stata version 16 for analysis. The analysis employed primary descriptive statistics and results were presented on suitable frequency tables and bar graphs. The study shows that there was significant difference in the milk yield produced by cows under different types of shelters (p<0.001). The post hoc analysis indicates that there was a significant difference in milk yield between semi-permanent and temporary shelters where semi-permanent housing yielding 0.72 liters more on average (p=0.001). Moreover, cows under semi-permanent x shelter also results in significantly higher milk yield by 0.65 liters more than having no shelter (p=0.003) and permanent shelter yields significantly 1 more liters of milk than temporary housing. Similarly, cow under permanent shelters produces significantly higher milk yield (by 0.93 liters) than no shelter. The difference in milk production between cow under temporary or no shelter was not significant (p=0.921). However, there was no influence of shelter types on animal health (p>0.05). The prevalent constrains to providing animal shelters among farmers were lack of funds, lack of technical support, limited land space, and cultural barriers. This study provide valuable insight into understanding how housing can enhance animal production. Addressing the identified constrains can help improve animals production.Item Evaluating the social economic and management factors limiting the success of beef production : a case of Gweri sub-county, Soroti district.(Busitema University, 2025) Kibumbire, JumaBeef production plays an important role in animal production sector, enhancing food security, income generation, and employment opportunities. However, despite its potential, it faces limitations that hinder its success. This study aimed to evaluate the limitations to the success of beef production in Gweri subcounty Soroti district aiming at socio economic and management factors. These may include factors such as access to markets, financial resources, veterinary services, feed quality, breeding practices, and disease management. The study employs a survey design, collecting data through questionnaires and interviews with the beef farmers and in Gweri subcounty Soroti district. The study findings highlighted key socioeconomic and management factors limiting beef production in Gweri subcounty Soroti district. The study findings informed strategies to address these challenges. This study evaluated the socio-economic and management factors affecting beef production in Gweri subcounty Soroti District using a survey of 168 farmers. Results showed that most farmers are in the productive age group (36–45 years) and practice mixed farming, but low education levels, limited access to credit, and minimal reinvestment of income constrain growth. Management practices remain largely traditional, with extensive grazing systems, poor-quality natural pastures, and minimal use of improved feeds, inadequate housing, and negligible technology adoption. Local breeds, particularly Zebu (59.43%) and Ankole (20.28%), are preferred for disease resistance and ease of management. Key constraints include animal diseases (East Coast Fever, Anaplasmosis, Foot and Mouth Disease, and helminth infections), cattle theft, poor breeds, and land shortages. Despite strong market demand, these factors reduce productivity and profitability. Addressing education, credit access, modern livestock management, and disease control is crucial for enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of beef production in the district.Item Knowledge, attitude, and practices of livestock farmers, abattoir workers and butchers towards prevention and control of brucell osisin Kwania distict.(Busitema University, 2025) Ojuka, Boniface EtimeBrucellosis remains an important but neglected zoonosis in Uganda with 379 confirmed brucellosis cases recorded in Kwania District between 2021 and 2024 (HMIS, 2025). Risky behaviors and practices still remain common among the rural communities thereby increasing exposure. Despite this, community misconceptions such as the belief that brucellosis only comes from eating meat persist. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of livestock farmers, butchers, and abattoir workers regarding brucellosis prevention and control in Kwania District. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 251 respondents in three purposively selected sub counties (Aduku Town Council, Ayabi sub county and Chawente sub county) of Kwania District between August and September 2025. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize data, and Chi-square tests used to determine the associations between KAP and socio-demographic variables. Knowledge was significantly associated with sex (p = 0.048) but not with occupation (p = 0.513) or education (p =0.380). Overall, 78.1% of respondents had positive attitudes towards brucellosis control which varied significantly by occupation (p =0.001) but not by sex (p = 0.731). In contrast, practice level was significantly associated with sex (p = 0.045) but not occupation (p = 0.417). The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 36.9%, 3.79 (±0.48), and 26.5% (±19.2), respectively. The study concluded that awareness on brucellosis among livestock handlers in Kwania District is relatively high, accurate knowledge and safe practices remains poor. Positive attitudes are not being translated into behavioral changes, with most respondents still having high risky practices. The study underscores an urgent need for community-based health education, occupational training on protective practices, and stronger One Health collaboration between veterinary and human health sectors to reduce zoonotic transmission risk.Item Knowledge, attitudes, and practices on the formulation of locally made pig feeds in Kobwin sub-county, Ngora district.(Busitema University, 2025) Atula, SamHigh feed costs remain the principal constraint to profitable smallholder pig production in Uganda. locally available agro-residues and by-products offer a low-cost alternative if farmers possess the requisite knowledge and skills for safe, balanced formulation. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) related to formulation of locally made pig feeds among smallholder farmers in Kobwin Subcounty, Ngora District, Uganda. A descriptive cross-sectional KAP survey was conducted between 26 May and 26 July 2025 using a semi-structured questionnaire administered to a proportionally sampled cohort of 109 pig-keeping households across nine villages. Data were entered into Excel and analyzed in SPSS v20 using descriptive statistics, Likert-scale summaries and chi-square tests (α = 0.05). Results showed that most respondents (82/109; 75.2%) had heard of local feed materials, and energy-rich ingredients (e.g., maize bran, cassava peels) were the most commonly recognized items. However, awareness of protein and micronutrient sources was limited and only 4/109 (3.7%) reported any formal training on feed formulation. Actual on-farm formulation was rare: 107/109 (98.2%) did not regularly prepare balanced rations, and where mixing occurred, it relied on informal, unstandardized measures (reported guesswork rather than weighing or fixed ratios). Attitudes toward locally formulated feeds were moderately positive overall (mean attitude score ≈ 2.98 on a 1–5 scale) but tempered by widespread fear of harming animals through incorrect formulation. Inferential tests indicated no statistically significant associations between basic demographics and key KAP outcomes (for example, highest education level × awareness of local feed materials: χ² = 2.148, df = 3, p = 0.542; sum of known ingredients × education: χ² = 27.891, df = 24, p = 0.265), suggesting barriers to adoption are driven more by limited technical support and input access than by formal schooling or age. The study concludes that locally formulated feeds is constrained by knowledge gaps (especially regarding protein and micronutrients), lack of practical training, poor measurement practices and limited access to protein-rich ingredients. Recommended actions include targeted extension/training programs, promotion of community-level input supply and cooperative mixing facilities, inclusion of feed formulation in extension packages, and follow-up cost-benefit trials comparing locally formulated versus commercial rations.Item Evaluating the effects of locally formulated feeds on temperature and turbidity in Arapai campus fishpond.(Busitema University, 2026) Abondi, YashirAquaculture is increasingly important for food security, income and employment in Uganda, creating a need for affordable and sustainable fish production practices. However, the high cost of commercial fish feeds remains a major challenge to small-scale fish farmers, increasing the need for locally formulated alternatives. Despite their potential, limited information exists on how such feeds affect pond water quality particularly temperature and turbidity. This study therefore evaluated the effect of locally formulated feeds on selected physical water quality parameters in African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) ponds at Busitema University, Arapai Campus, soroti district. A total of 240 juvenile catfish were stocked in replicated hapa units within an earthen pond and monitored for six weeks. Temperature was measured twice daily using an analogue thermometer, while turbidity was measured using a Secchi disk. Data were analysed using One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) at a 5% significance level. Mean temperature was 25.91 ± 2.28°C in Treatment 1 and 25.89 ± 2.44°C in Treatment 2, with no significant difference between treatments (p = 0.925). Mean turbidity was 34.52cm ± 0.83 and 34.45cm ± 0.67 respectively also showing no significant difference (p = 0.666). The study concluded that the tested locally formulated feeds did not significantly affect temperature or turbidity during the study period. Fish farmers may therefore consider locally formulated feeds as a potential alternative to commercial feeds while routinely monitoring pond water quality. The findings provide useful information for fish farmers, extension s workers and researchers on feed selection and maintenance of suitable pond conditions. Keywords: African catfish, locally formulated feeds, water quality, temperature, turbidity, aquacultureItem Determining livestock keepers' phenotypic preferences and breeding selection criteria used for indigenous livestock in Katakwi and Kotido districts, Uganda.(Busitema University, 2026) Opio, SimonThis study assessed livestock keepers preferred phenotypic expressions and breeding selection criteria for indigenous livestock under mobile production systems in Katakwi District (Teso sub-region) and Kotido District (Karamoja sub-region), Uganda. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 384 livestock keepers, with 192 respondents from each district. Data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, 95% confidence intervals, Welch independent-samples t-tests, Pearson chi-square (χ²) tests, Cramér’s V, weighted rank scores and the Relative Importance Index (RII), with statistical significance assessed at p < .05. Transhumance (48.2%) and nomadism (38.8%) were the dominant production systems. Body size was the highest-rated phenotypic expression (mean = 3.46 ± 0.75; 86.7%, 95% CI: 83.0%–89.8% rated it important/very important), while disease resistance was the highest-ranked breeding-selection criterion (RII = 0.484), followed by body size (RII = 0.452) and fertility (RII = 0.384). Production system was not significantly associated with high importance ratings for any of the seven measured phenotypic expressions (all p > .05), indicating broadly similar preference patterns across transhumant, nomadic and sedentary systems. District differences were observed for horn size rating distributions (χ² = 8.80, p = .032), top-five mention of walking ability (χ² = 7.63, p = .006), market price as a reason for preference (χ² = 4.89, p = .027) and disease as a reported challenge (χ² = 9.78, p = .002). Disease (78.9%), drought (77.6%) and feed shortage (72.1%) were the leading constraints. The study concludes that livestock keepers mainly prioritise adaptive, reproductive and productive traits, while measured phenotype preferences were generally consistent across mobility systems. Community breeding programmes, veterinary services, improved feed and water resources, farmer training and access to suitable breeding males are recommended.Item Determining the effects of Tephrosia Vogelii, Azadirachta Indica and Jatropha Curcas leaf extracts on Rhipicephalus Appendiculatus in Katakwi district.(Busitema University, 2026) Okot, StephenThis study assessed the in vitro acaricidal efficacy of Tephrosia vogelii, Azadirachta indica and Jatropha curcas leaf extracts against Rhipicephalus appendiculatus from Kapujan Sub-County, Katakwi District, Uganda, where tick acaricide resistance is a growing challenge among smallholder farmers. It also documented farmers’ indigenous knowledge on medicinal plants used for tick control. Data were collected from 30 livestock farmers using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Plants were selected based on frequency of mention for tick control, with Tephrosia. vogelii authenticated by a botanist at Makerere University Herbarium. Shade-dried leaves were powdered and ethanol-extracted (50g in 200mL × 3; total 600mL per species), yielding 5.77g Tephrosia vogelii), 4.40g (Azadirachta indica) and 2.56g (Jatropha curcas). Extracts were tested at 10.5%, 12.5% and 14.5% in a completely randomized design (3 replicates, 10 ticks per replicate) using commercial Amitraz 12.5% (positive) and normal saline (negative) controls. Tick mortality was recorded at 2-, 5-, 10- and 30-minutes post-treatment and analyzed using two-way ANOVA. All extracts were acaricidal but differed significantly (P<0.001). Azadirachta indica was fastest initially (32.2% at 2 min, 58.9% at 5 min). At 30 min, Tephrosia vogelii had highest plant mortality (86.7%), followed by Azadirachta indica (80.0%) and Jatropha curcas (71.1%). Amitraz was highest overall (20% to 100% from 2 to 30 min). Concentration was significant only at 2 min (P=0.022); no plant × concentration interaction was observed. vogelii, Azadirachta indica and Jatropha curcas possess in vitro acaricidal activity against Rhipicephalus appendiculatus, with Tephrosia vogelii most promising at 30 min, though Amitraz remained superior under experimental conditions. Findings support further investigation, formulation and in vivo safety evaluation of these plants, particularly Tephrosia vogelii, as affordable, eco-friendly complementary options for tick management in low-income and organic farming systems.Item Studies on nematocidal activity of chamaecrista nigricans, carica papaya and vernonia amygdalina extracts against ascaris suum on pigs in Serere district, Uganda.(Busitema University, 2026) Ocen, John FrancisThis study investigated the acaricidal effects of Azadirachta Indica, Annonia squamosa and Solanum Indica plant extracts on Rephicephalus appendiculatus ticks in Kapelebyong District, Uganda. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 30 livestock farmers in Acinga Sub-County to document indigenous tick-control practices, while an in vitro Adult Immersion Test (AIT) was used to evaluate Azadirachta indica, Annona squamosa and Solanum incanum. The extracts were tested at three recorded concentration levels (0.105, 0.125 and 0.145), with three replicates per treatment and 10 ticks per replicate. A standard acaricide (Amitraz) served as the positive control, while a negative control was included for comparison. Tick mortality was recorded at 0, 2, 5, 10 and 30 minutes. Survey data were summarized using frequencies and percentages, whereas laboratory data were analyzed using mean mortality, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's HSD test at a 5% level of significance. All 30 respondents had experienced tick infestation, cattle were identified as the most affected livestock by 96.7% of respondents, and 29 (96.7%) respondents reported using medicinal plants for tick control. Neem was the most frequently reported plant among medicinal-plant users (48.3%), followed by Sodom apple (31.0%) and custard apple (27.6%). At 30 minutes and concentration 0.145, Azadirachta indica and Solanum incanum each produced 100.0% mean mortality, while Annona squamosa produced 93.3%. Concentration significantly affected final mortality for Azadirachta indica (p = 0.011), Annona squamosa (p = 0.003) and Solanum incanum (p < 0.001). The highest-concentration plant extracts were not significantly different from the positive control at the final endpoint but were significantly different from the negative control. The study concludes that the selected plant extracts possess substantial in vitro acaricidal activity and merit further investigation through standardised extraction, toxicity assessment, in vivo testing and field evaluation.Item Identification of market infrastructure in selected livestock markets in the Teso sub-region, Uganda.(Busitema University, 2026-09-24) Ssebuuma, RonaldThe focus of this research was to identify the existing market infrastructure in four prominent livestock markets in Uganda's Teso sub-region, Arapai (Soroti City), Ocaapa (Serere District), Ocorimongin (Katakwi District) and Bukedea (Bukedea District). The analysis involved the use of descriptive statistics, Infrastructure indices and one-way ANOVA. The results indicated that there were differences in the level of infrastructure development in the region. Among the markets, Ocorimongin had the highest infrastructure index (0.83), followed by Bukedea (0.78), while Arapai and Ocaapa came last with an infrastructure index of 0.50. with (F = 22.458, p < 0.001). Although traders said it was okay that they had enough basic perimeter fencing, holding grounds, access roads, security and latrines, they pointed out the serious lack or absence of key things that are necessary for trading activities. The most important facilities in question here are weighbridges, spray races, water points, feed troughs, quarantine areas, waste management systems and shelters for traders which got extreamly low adequacy ratings. In conclusion, livestock trade in the Teso sub-region faces challenges because infrastructure development in unevenly distributed across the trading areas. Public –private investments in crucial services and sanitation facilities are urgently needed to modernize trading areas, animal welfare and improve commercial efficiency.Item Socio-economic factors influencing cattle traders' market participation and income generation in selected livestock markets of Teso sub-region, eastern Uganda.(Busitema University, 2026) Kagimu, MusaLivestock is a major source of income, food security and social welfare in Teso subregion and other agro-pastoral and pastoral regions. It contributes about 11% of Uganda's agricultural GDP and 4.3% of the total GDP, the Uganda cattle population was estimated to be 14.5 million in 2021. Cattle traders play a central role in cattle marketing but limited evidence is available on the influence of their socio-economic characteristics on market participation and income which the study aimed to address. A cross sectional survey was used and structured questionnaires were administered to 408 cattle traders in the markets of Arapai, Bukedea, Ocaapa and Ocorimongin. Descriptive results showed male dominated trade 86.3%, mean age 43.78 years, 85.2% married, 49.4% primary education, 78.0% main occupation as cattle trade, 36.0% had 6 to 10 years experience, 55.5% owned smartphones and trekking was main transport 67.3%. Chi-square showed significant differences in cattle ownership, access to training, credit access distance, trading beyond Teso, age and trading days across the four livestock markets (p<0.05). Binary logistic model was significant χ²(19)=457.493, p<0.001, R²=0.924, trading days (OR=0.489, p<0.001) and cattle traded (OR=0.912, p=0.045) predicted market participation. Ordinal logistic model was significant χ²(22)=185.882, p<0.001, R²=0.577, household size, number of cattle traded, education, association, experience, trading scope, distance and trekking influenced income. In conclusion, participation is driven by trading intensity while income is determined by education, scale of trade, credit access, association membership and market scope. Trading remains male led, with experienced traders but heterogeneous across markets. The study recommends improving access to affordable credit, providing business training, strengthening smartphone market information and improving transport. Further studies should investigate barriers preventing women and youth from fully entering and remaining in livestock marketing and adopt longitudinal design to track seasonal changes in participation and income in Teso.Item Determination of growth performance of crickets (acheta domesticus) reared on rice bran substrate.(Busitema University, 2026) Wepondi, HarbertInsects, particularly the house cricket (Acheta domesticus), are increasingly recognized as a sustainable and nutritious alternative protein source to address food and nutrition insecurity, with advantages including efficient feed conversion, low resource requirements, and the ability to utilize agro-industrial by-products. Limited information exists on the performance of crickets reared on locally available agro-based substrates in Uganda. This study evaluated the growth performance, feed intake, feed conversion ratio (FCR), survival, and maturity of house crickets reared on different agro-based substrates at Busitema University Arapai Campus, Soroti District. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three treatments and three replicates was used: T1 (100% maize bran as control), T2 (100% rice bran), and T7 (50% maize bran + 50% rice bran). Each replicate started with 50 third- to fourth-instar nymphs (total 450 crickets) reared for eight weeks under ambient room conditions (28–31 °C), with pumpkin leaves as a water source. Weekly measurements included body weight gain, feed intake, FCR, survival rate, and reproductive parameters (days to laying and hatching). Results showed that pure rice bran (T2) supported poor performance: weight gain declined and became negative from week 6 (−0.0103 ± 0.0105 g) to week 8 (−0.2637 ± 0.1631 g), with significantly lower total weight gain (3.020 ± 0.846 g) compared to T1 (8.683 ± 0.975 g) and T7 (8.193 ± 0.686 g) (p = 0.0057). Survival at week 8 was lowest in T2 (20.7 ± 3.1%) versus T1 (44.7 ± 3.1%) and T7 (46.7 ± 2.3%) (p < 0.001). The 50:50 blend (T7) achieved the shortest time to laying (43.3 ± 3.8 days; p = 0.019) and overall performance comparable to the maize bran control, while pure rice bran delayed egg hatching (22.7 ± 1.2 days). Feed intake increased with age across treatments, but FCR was less efficient on pure rice bran. In conclusion, 100% rice bran is unsuitable as a sole substrate due to nutritional limitations (high fibre, anti-nutritional factors), leading to reduced growth, survival, and reproductive success. A 50% maize bran + 50% rice bran blend offers a viable, cost-effective alternative that maintains growth and survival while utilizing local agro-waste. These findings support recommendations for blended substrates in smallholder cricket farming to enhance food security and income generation in Soroti District and similar agro-ecological zones.Item Market opportunities available to cattle traders in selected livestock markets of the Teso sub-region.(Busitema University, 2026) Omoding, CharlesThe livestock sector is key to the sustainability of livelihoods, food security, and income generation in Uganda. In the Teso sub-region of Uganda, cattle marketing forms some of the key economic activities linking the producers to the market. However, even though the significance of cattle marketing is increasing, there is no sufficient information about the existing market opportunities for cattle marketers in livestock markets of the region. The purpose of the study was to examine the market opportunities available to cattle traders in selected livestock markets of the Teso sub-region, Uganda. Specifically, the study identified and describe the major market opportunities that facilitate cattle trading activities. The study will be conducted in Arapai, Ocaapa, Ocorimongin, and Bukedea livestock markets using a cross-sectional descriptive research design. A quantitative research approach will be employed, and data will be collected using structured questionnaires administered to all accessible and consenting cattle traders during market days. Data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Where necessary, Chi-square tests will be used to examine associations between selected trader characteristics and perceived market opportunities. The findings of the study are expected to provide valuable information to policymakers, livestock market authorities, development partners, and researchers on opportunities that can be leveraged to enhance cattle trade and promote livestock commercialization in the Teso sub-region.Item Prevalence, risk factors and spices compositions of helminthiasis in animals slaughtered at Tororo municipal abattoir.(Busitema University, 2026) Mwesigwa, DanHelminth infections are among the leading constraints to livestock production in developing countries, particularly affecting animal productivity, health and livelihoods of farmers. This study intended to determine the prevalence, risk factors, and species composition of helminths in cattle, goats, and sheep slaughtered at the Tororo Municipal Abattoir, located in Eastern Uganda. The collection and analysis of data obtained took two-month period (August–September 2025). Using a deliberate and simple random sampling method, approximately 20 grams of fecal matter per animal were obtained and analyzed using three standard diagnostic techniques: direct smear, sedimentation, and flotation methods. The samples was examined microscopically for the presence of worm eggs, and data on animal characteristics including age, sex, breed, health history, and management practices were recorded to assess the risk factors for worm infestation. The study examined 168 slaughtered animals with 76 cattle, 86 goats and 6 sheep of which Fasciola sp being the most predominant species in cattle 62(36.90%) while Nematodirus sp and Bunostomum sp were all negative for cattle. For goats Cooperia sp 25(14.88%) caused the highest number of infestation Ostertagia sp and Moniezia sp had no impact of the animals also sheep test negative for all the helminthes species tested. The findings also revealed both mixed and single infestation with nematode infestation being Haemonchus sp, Trichostrongylus sp, Cooperia sp, Nematodirus sp, Bunostomum sp, Oesophgotomum sp, Cooperia sp, Strongyloides sp, Ostertagia sp, trematodes include Fasciola sp while cestodes included Moniezia sp. Various risk factors contributed to the infection and spread of the disease and among others sex, age, breed, body condition score of the animal, general health of the animal, climatic condition and seasonal variation. This in coupled with various management factors including lack of fence, limited separation of suspected and normal animals, communal grazing, inadequate hygiene, overcrowding among others. Keywords: Helminths infections, Nematodes, Trematodes, Cestodes, Risk factors and Feacal content.