Article Abstract

Journal of Agricultural Science and Food Technology

Research Paper|Published September 2021|Vol.7 (1):10-18

https://doi.org/10.36630/jasft_21001

 

 

Assisted Reproductive Technologies for Decision Support in Reproductive Management of  Dairy Cattle in Kenya: What are the Prospects? KAPS Study

 

Wilkister Nakami1* and Victor Tsuma2

 

1Clinical Studies Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 29053 Nairobi Kenya.
2Animal Production and Health Section, Joint FAO/IAEA Division, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria.
 

ABSTRACT

The human population is expected to double in Africa by 2030 and with it a consequent rise in demand for livestock products. Reproductive technologies improve livestock productivity however, uptake of the technologies has been low in Africa, yet this is where there is a dire need for livestock products as the human population surges. This study aimed to assess knowledge extent and understanding the use of assisted reproductive technologies in decision support for reproductive management of dairy cattle in Kenya.  Dairy farmers and veterinary practitioners were interviewed using a questionnaire to obtain relevant data on knowledge, attitude and practices in the use of assisted reproductive technologies in reproductive management in dairy farms.  Observable heat signs was the only method used by participants to ascertain estrus in a cow. Artificial insemination technique was adopted by all farmers as the breeding method of choice. The analysis highlighted that the respondents with low levels of formal education had less knowledge on reproductive technologies and displayed risky practices. Overall, a larger proportion of respondents indicated that the assisted reproductive technologies would be important in reproductive management. The relatively low levels of awareness, higher levels of education and a willingness to use the assisted reproductive technologies in reproductive management of dairy cattle strengthen the logic of improving productivity through the application of these assisted reproductive technologies as well as improve levels of awareness of reproductive management practices.

 

Keywords: attitude, heat detection, knowledge, pregnancy diagnosis, practices, progesterone

 

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