Analysis of poultry traditional indigenous knowledge mystical systems and their role in control and prevention of poultry diseases, Masaka District.

Abstract

This study was done to analyse the poultry traditional indigenous knowledge mystical systems (TRIKOMS) and their role in control and prevention of poultry diseases in Masaka district, Uganda. This study aimed at, determining the meaning of myths and belief practices among different social classes identify and document the elements of myths and beliefs related to prevention and control of poultry diseases and to determine the factors that lead to the survival of the myths and belief practices in the community. Qualitative methods of data collection and analysis were used. Results of the study showed that the meaning underlying the myths and beliefs are, to strengthen socio relationships, ensure food security, promote human health and for spiritual or religious functions. In addition, majority (63%) of the myths and beliefs practices decoded encouraged poultry disease spread while 13.5% encouraged disease control. Furthermore, it was found out that there were no clear-cut channels of transfer of knowledge from one generation to the other and there are several factors that have led to the degradation of the myths and belief practices in the communities. The study concludes that despite the importance of TRIKOMS to communities there is a need to sensitize the communities on the potential role of these systems in the spread of poultry diseases. Human phenomenon is important in influencing the outcome of poultry disease control. Thus veterinary research scientists should desist from focusing on only poultry, pathogens and vectors in their research endeavors in poultry diseases control. More efforts ought to be directed towards understanding the human phenomenon.