Barriers to livestock vaccine use among rural female smallholder farmers of Nyagatare district in Rwanda

Women comprise the majority of small livestock keepers,but the productivity of their livestock is constrained by limited access to vaccines that could prevent and control animal diseases. This study examined the factors driving low adoption of vaccination against Newcastle disease(NCD) and Rift Valley fever(RFV) among smallholder women farmers of Nyagatare Districtin order to identify appropriate strategies that can lead to improved livestock production. Focus group discussions and key informant interviews were used to collect data on the level of women’s participation in household decision making and their involvement atdifferent levels along the vaccine value chain (VVC) for the NCD and RVF. Data were collected from 55 chicken and goat farmers—36 of which were women—as well as representatives of chicken farmer cooperatives, sector veterinarians, agrovet shop owners, and personnel from local NGOs working on livestock production and improvement. Our results reveal that women’s ability to use livestock vaccines is constrained by cultural norms that limit theirdecisionsover productive assets and income that they can use for buying vaccines. Women are also hindered by unavailability of livestock vaccines, lack of information and knowledge about livestock vaccination,and limited access to veterinary extension services. Our results highlight a need to organize gender training targeting men and women to change the attitudes, beliefs,and behaviors that affect women’s ability to make independent decisions regarding the purchase and use of vaccines. Women also needtrainingon livestock disease management through vaccination and easy access to veterinary services.

Keywords: Newcastle disease, Rift Valley fever, livestock vaccines, Rwanda, female smallholder farmer, gendered decision making