Consumer preferences and the uptake of animal healthcare by the poor: a case study from Kenya

Abstract

This paper examines issues in the delivery of veterinary services to the poor in Kenya. Utilising a simplified livelihood approach, the study found that livestock most often functioned as a means of gaining social approbation rather than a risk mitigation strategy. In regard to the delivery of veterinary services, three key parameters were evaluated: access, acceptability and affordability. The assessment revealed that access to veterinary services rather than affordability is the primary constraint. However, few herders and farmers were spending close to the estimated ‘ideal’ on livestock drugs. Knowledge regarding livestock health was poor, further contributing to the overall low uptake of veterinary goods and services.

Citation

Journal of International Development (2001) 13 (7) 847-861 [DOI: 10.1002/jid.827]

Consumer preferences and the uptake of animal healthcare by the poor: a case study from Kenya

Published 1 January 2001