AIDSImpact.com:: - Santa Fe, USA 2011

Abstract #364 - Impact of HIV/AIDS on the livestock-producing communities of Uganda: case studies of Moyo and Kashumba sub counties
Authors: Presenting Author: Mr Edward Mubiru - Makerere University
Additional Authors:
Aim: Major aim of the study was to find out the Impact of HIV/AIDS on the Livestock-Producing Communities of Uganda in Moyo and Kashumba Sub counties.
Method / Issue: Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaire administration, focus group discussion, observation guides for social phenomena and review of secondary data.
Results / Comments: The study showed that there was reduction in the availability of labour for grazing and watering livestock in both Moyo (χ2=5.200, p=0.023) and Kashumba (χ2=13.958, p= 0.001); There was shift in decision-making and implementation from household heads who have died to surviving household members. There was significant negative changes in livestock grazing and sale of livestock products, Moyo (p= 0.019), (p=0.017), Kashumba (p= 0.009) and (p=0.041) in households affected by HIV/AIDS compared to those none affected. Furthermore, there was reduction in grazing and watering time for livestock activities, Moyo (p=0.005), Kashumba (p=0.003). It was observed generally, that daily animal source foods reduced drastically in the households affected by the HIV/AIDS.
Discussion: The livestock husbandry practices that could aggravate the effects of HIV/AIDS included; rigorous of grazing, spraying without protective wears leading to inhalation of the acaricide fumes, and consumption of drug residues in livestock products leading to drug resistance. The livestock plays a key role in household income and employment. The study recommended that livestock sector should plan ahead and work towards AIDS–competent communities in Uganda. This should enhance frequent community baseline assessment, community action strategies, and integrated plan for informing communities timely and effectively. Social cohesion should be strengthened and nutritional education should be directed to vulnerable groups and masses extensively sensitized on drug withdrawal periods, safe spraying and labour saving practices.
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