Assessment of factors associated with access and adoption of artificial insemination among selected farmers in Central Uganda

Abstract

The increasing human population is associated with more demand for animal proteins across the globe. Dairy cattle farming is a major source of protein-rich milk and milk products. To match the growing need, improved genetic breeds such as the Holstein Friesian, Ayrshire, Guernsey, and Jersey have been selected. Efforts have been made to spread these breeds all over the world through technologies like the artificial insemination (AI) and embryo transfer (ET). Such advanced reproductive technologies and breeds have made it possible to optimize milk production in several countries. However, the adoption of those technologies and breeds in developing countries remains challenging. This study assessed the common breeding methods used and the factors that hinder the access to and adoption of genetic breeds of dairy cattle among selected dairy farmers within the districts of Kampala, Mukono, Wakiso, Buikwe and Luwero in Central Uganda. A cross sectional study was conducted by questionnaires and interviews to dairy farmers in the selected districts of central Uganda. Fifty-nine dairy farmers purposely selected from within the Dairy Farmers’ Network (DAFAN) cluster in Central Uganda districts of Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, Luwero, and Buikwe participated in the study. In this study, the adoption of breeding methods by the farmers in the DAFAN cluster shows that 61% use Artificial Insemination (AI), 31% prefer natural mating, while 8% employ both methods. High cost and lack of technical support were report to be the major factors that limit full adoption of artificial breeding technologies. Other factors influencing AI adoption, including education level, farming experience, herd size, and cattle breed preferences. The findings suggest that enhancing farmer education and providing affordable AI services could significantly improve access to elite dairy genetics to the farmers. This being a pilot study limited in scope, It is recommended that a larger study and farmer sensitization to enhance access to superior dairy genetics in Uganda be done.