Study on the Livestock Keepers’ Perception on East Coast Fever-Immunization (ECFiM) in Kajiado Central, Kenya

The study was carried out in Kajiado County to gain information on livestock keepers' perception of
East coast Fever disease and its vaccine utilization. East Coast fever (ECF) is a major constraint to
livestock production, ranking among those of high economic importance. The main aim of the study
was to realize the livestock keeper’s perception of the East Coast Fever Immunization vaccines
(ECFiM). The data was collected using a survey of 88 households, fifteen focus groups with livestock
keepers, key informant interviews and a workshop. Type of livestock kept by the community and their
preference; cattle 37.5%, sheep 28%. Prioritized livestock diseases: ECF 42.5%, FMD 25%. Sources
of ECFiM-vaccines information were ranked as Kenya Agricultural Livestock Research Organization
(KALRO) employees 26.25% and veterinarians16.25%. Agriculture being a devolved function, the
County government should formulate policies that enhance the working relationship between
(KALRO) so that they can train the farmers on the use of ECFiM vaccine. There is a need for the
County government to link the farmers with financial institutions where they could have access to
loans to purchase the vaccine.