Factors Influencing The Effectiveness Of Animal Welfare Programs In Kenya A Case Of Kenya Society For The Protection And Care Of Animals (KSPCA)

Abstract

This research was undertaken to investigate and analyse the factors that influence the effectiveness of animal welfare programmes in Kenya. The descriptive survey research design was employed and data was collected by means of questionnaires administered to all the 46 employees of the Kenya Society for Prevention and Care of Animals (KSPCA), which was the case of study. Observation and focused group discussion were also used. The objectives of the study were; to determine the influence of level of training and awareness of animal welfare in the community on the effectiveness of animal welfare programs, to establish the influence of culture on the effectiveness of animal welfare programs, to assess the influence of level of government support and legislation on the effectiveness of animal welfare programs, to determine the effect of rise of demand for animal products on the effectiveness of animal welfare programs. The findings indicated that the level, influence and impact of training is high and the groups reached are many. 87.0% of the respondents agreed with that. The methods of training were found to be appropriate but this need to be improved on since 25.0% of the respondents admitted that the methods were not appropriate. However, community participation was noted to be low with 90.0% admitting that. Cultural factors have a strong influence in the effectiveness of animal welfare programs, myths, traditions and religious practices were noted to influence people’s attitude towards animals, a fact that was admitted by over 92.0% of the participants. It was noted that KSPCA as an organisation has been actively involved in animal policy formulation and implementation and law enforcement on animal welfare issues. It has also contributed to the increase of high quality products from animals. Over 95.0% of the participant agreed with that. In addition, the study found that the demand for animal products is increasing with readily available markets for animal products. The rise in demand has an impact on the effectiveness of animal welfare programmes, a fact that was supported by over 90.0% of the respondents. The study recommends that the government and various stakeholders should team up and ensure that laws, policies and practises governing animal welfare issues are formulated and adhered to so as to ensure that the rights of animals are respected. It will also be very important to incorporate animal welfare issues in education curriculum. This will sensitize the citizens on animal welfare issues from a tender age.