Abstract
Introduction: in the northern region of Benin, poultry farming is essential for livelihood and food security but is challenged by Newcastle Disease (ND) and Avian Influenza (AI). This study explores how gender dynamics and biosecurity practices affect the prevalence of these diseases in local poultry farms.
Methods: a survey was conducted among 118 smallholder farmers (52 men and 66 women) to gather data on biosecurity practices, disease incidence, and farm demographics. The data were analyzed to identify relationships between variables such as gender, farm size, and biosecurity measures.
Results: women predominantly managed small-scale farms (60.10%). Newcastle disease was reported by 49.15% of farmers, with symptoms including torticollis (43.10%) and greenish diarrhea (37.93%). Avian Influenza was reported by 30.76% of farmers, with symptoms such as hemorrhagic comb wattles and legs (34.29%) and sudden death (25.71%). Vaccination against ND was practiced by 51.69% of farmers; none were vaccinated against AI. Significant relationships were found between gender and farm size (p < 0.001), biosecurity implementation and ND experience (p = 0.027), wild bird contact and AI experience (p < 0.001), and quarantine practice and AI experience (p = 0.006).
Conclusion: the study underscores the necessity for enhanced biosecurity measures and veterinary services to control Newcastle disease and Avian Influenza in Northern Benin. It emphasizes the importance of empowering female farmers through improved access to biosecurity resources, targeted training, and microfinancing. Experience with ND motivates preventive actions, whereas AI experience did not significantly impact biosecurity practices.