The Bird Flu Watch initiative is a groundbreaking project aimed at protecting smallholder poultry farmers in Nigeria from the devastating impacts of avian influenza. This initiative is a collaborative effort between Nigerian and Welsh researchers, supervised by Dr. Edore Akpokodje from Aberystwyth University.
The Bird Flu Watch initiative is a groundbreaking project aimed at protecting smallholder poultry farmers in Nigeria from the devastating impacts of avian influenza. This initiative is a collaborative effort between Nigerian and Welsh researchers, supervised by Dr. Edore Akpokodje from Aberystwyth University.
The importance of poultry in Nigeria
Poultry farming is a critical component of Nigeria’s agricultural sector, contributing 25% to the agricultural GDP and accounting for 33% of the total protein consumption in the country. The majority of poultry farmers in Nigeria are smallholders, often operating backyard farms. These small-scale operations are particularly vulnerable to the spread of bird flu due to limited biosecurity measures and a lack of awareness about the disease.
Challenges faced by smallholder farmers
Surveys indicate that only 60% of Nigerian poultry farmers are aware of bird flu, and fewer than one in six understand that it can be transmitted from animals to humans. Additionally, over 40% of these farmers lack sufficient knowledge of biosecurity practices, putting both their livelihoods and health at risk. The Bird Flu Watch initiative aims to address these gaps by providing accessible, offline information and resources to improve disease management and biosecurity practices.
The role of technology
Central to the Bird Flu Watch initiative is the development of a new app and information platform designed specifically for smallholder farmers. This platform will offer expert advice, surveillance data, and best practices to help farmers manage and prevent avian influenza outbreaks. The app is being developed by Omeva Consulting, a Namibian company specializing in data and IT solutions for smallholder farmers.
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Empowering farmers through education
The initiative also includes an awareness campaign led by the Neglected Disease Eradication Campaign, a Nigerian NGO dedicated to curbing infectious diseases in rural communities. By empowering farmers with knowledge and resources, the Bird Flu Watch initiative aims to prevent the spread of avian influenza and ensure the sustainability of Nigeria’s poultry industry.
A collaborative effort
The Bird Flu Watch initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration. Researchers, entrepreneurs, and NGOs from Nigeria, Wales, and Namibia are working together to leverage technology and information sharing to advance the poultry sector in Nigeria. This initiative not only aims to protect the health of poultry and farmers but also to contribute to the overall food security and economic stability of the country.
In conclusion, the Bird Flu Watch initiative represents a significant step forward in safeguarding smallholder poultry farmers in Nigeria. By combining technological innovation with education and awareness, this project has the potential to transform the poultry industry and improve the livelihoods of countless farmers across the country.
