Sustainability of a privatized community-based animal health worker system in Mwingi District, Kenya.

This paper describes a study on the sustainability of Community-based Animal Health Worker (CAHW) services in Mwingi District, Kenya. These services began in 1992 and were supported by the District Veterinary Authority (DVA) with assistance from the Integrated Food Security Programme-Eastern (IFSP-E). Over time and using a process of participatory reviews with multiple stakeholders, the system evolved into a network of CAHWs. The study focused on CAHWs' service sustainability and their relationships with other animal health service providers. A mutually beneficial and supportive arrangement existed between the CAHWs and Animal Health Assistants (AHAs), based on a private drug supply system, referral and backstopping support. The CAHWs derived sufficient income from their veterinary work to maintain their interest in the system. Seventy percent of CAHWs were continuing to offer adequate animal health services 3 years or more after their initial training and the withdrawal of donor support. Ninety-five percent of sampled CAHWs (n = 40) viewed their business as successful and expanding. Considering the agro-ecological and socio-economic conditions of the district, the CAHW system can be viewed as an initial stage in the process of extending quality private sector veterinary services.

Assessment of the technical competence and ethical behaviour of Community-based Animal Health Workers in Mwingi District, Kenya.

This paper describes an assessment of the technical competence and ethical behaviour of Community-based Animal Health Workers (CAHWs) in Mwingi District, Kenya. From 99 trained CAHWs, 40 participated in the study. Using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire, direct observation of the relevant veterinary drug kits and participatory discussions, the study team found that the CAHWs knowledge of clinical signs of local livestock diseases and notifiable and zoonotic diseases and their ability to use veterinary drugs correctly and safely were adequate. Marks were awarded to the candidates according to an agreed marking scheme between the CAHWs' trainers and study team members. The results showed that, overall, 36 out of 40 (90%) of the sampled CAHWs passed the tests. The existence of a referral system for CAHWs and refresher trainings helped to ensure that CAHW competence and ethical behaviour were maintained. However, it was also found that some areas of the current curriculum required more detailed input based on field experience. The CAHW system could serve as an alternative animal health care system in areas lacking veterinary services.