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Research article2023Peer reviewedOpen access

Antimicrobial Use by Peri-Urban Poultry Smallholders of Kajiado and Machakos Counties in Kenya

Mutua, Florence; Kiarie, Gideon; Mbatha, Miriam; Onono, Joshua; Boqvist, Sofia; Kilonzi, Emily; Mugisha, Lawrence; Moodley, Arshnee; Sternberg-Lewerin, Susanna

Abstract

Antimicrobial use (AMU) is a major driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). An understanding of current practices can lead to better targeting of AMU-reducing interventions. An analysis of the distribution and current usage of veterinary drugs in peri-urban smallholder poultry systems in Kenya was undertaken. A survey among poultry farmers and key informant interviews with agrovet operators and other players in the value chain was conducted in Machakos and Kajiado counties. Interview data were analyzed using descriptive and thematic approaches. A total of 100 farmers were interviewed. The majority (58%) were > 50 years old, and all kept chickens, while 66% kept other livestock. Antibiotics constituted 43% of the drugs reportedly used on the farms (n = 706). These were mostly administered by the farmers themselves (86%) through water (98%). Leftover drugs were stored for later use (89%) or disposed of (11%). Incineration was the main method for the disposal of leftover drugs and empty containers. As described by the key informants (n = 17), the drug distribution chain relied on agrovet shops that were supplied by local distributors and pharmaceutical companies, which, in turn, supplied drugs to the farmers. Farmers reportedly purchased drugs without prescriptions and rarely observed the withdrawal periods. Drug quality was a concern, especially for products requiring reconstitution.

Keywords

antimicrobial resistance; veterinary drug; animal health; food security; value chain

Published in

Antibiotics
2023, Volume: 12, number: 5, article number: 905
Publisher: MDPI

      SLU Authors

      • Associated SLU-program

      AMR: Bacteria

      Sustainable Development Goals

      Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

      UKÄ Subject classification

      Pathobiology
      Animal and Dairy Science

      Publication identifier

      DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics12050905

      Permanent link to this page (URI)

      https://res.slu.se/id/publ/122507