LIVESTOCK DISEASE SURVEILLANCE IN SAMBURU
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PlantVillage recently conducted a 2-day refresher training in Mararal, Samburu County Kenya. 10 scouts comprising of 8 community disease reporters (CDRs) and 2 One Health Scouts participated in learning exercise and field work activities. In attendance, was Samburu County veterinary officers Dr. Peninah Lekaura, Dr. Amos Lekukuu and County surveillance officer Dr. Simon Kiambi.
Over the year, climate change stressors have drastically affected the overall performance of livestock production resulting to increased diseases occurrence. To curb this, PlantVillage has integrated technology with human experts to help minimize this challenge. We have trained and engaged the local community (youths) who are easily accessible by pastoralists, to help report outbreaks of livestock diseases and offer extension services.
Our human experts are equipped with AI-enabled mobile application. The scouts are able to submit real time disease surveillance data that is accessible to county veterinary officers and county surveillance officers. This can help them to respond to diseases and situations in the ground appropriately.
“I recall how this mobile application helped veterinary officers to understand that there was a sheep and goat pox and rabies outbreak and they could travel to respond to those reports.” Says Melodine Jeptoo.
PlantVillage Nuru application is available on google play store. The beta version of the app has components like; location information, animal information, symptoms and ability to upload images.
Pastoralist can as well use the application to report diseases on their animals.
Written By;Mercyline Tata