EFFECT OF TICK CONTROL ON MILK REVENUE OF SMALLHOLDER DAIRY FARMERS IN KAPSERET SUB-COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Milk production is a viable economic enterprise in Kenya. It supports the livelihood of approximately four million Kenyans through food provision, income generation and employment. However, milk production per individual animal in Kenya, averaging seven to nine litres/cow/day, is low compared to the world’s best at 10,133 litres/cow/year (28 litres/cow/day). This means that Kenya produces an average of 20 litres of milk less per cow per day compared to the world’s best. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of tick control on milk revenue of smallholder dairy farmers in Kapseret Sub-county. Primary data was collected using closed and open ended questionnaires. Spearman’s rank correlation was used to show the strength of the relationship between the variables. Multiple regression model was used to assess the effect of tick control on milk revenue. Results were presented in tables, and descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequencies. The results indicated a positive and statistically significant relationship (r=0.263 & p=0.007) between tick control and milk revenue. Tick control practices essentially impacted cows’ health, which further influenced the level of milk revenue. The study concluded that tick control influenced milk revenue of smallholder dairy farmers in Kapseret Sub-county. The study recommended that smallholder dairy farmers need to be trained on the best and timely prevention measures of east coast fever. The government can encourage tick control practices by offering subsidized acaricides. This is because cows’ health has direct influence on milk production