Ethnoveterinary perceptions of cattle illnesses in western Kenya

Abstract

This paper explores ethnoveterinary perceptions of cattle illnesses among the Luo of western Kenya, where research was carried out in Central Sakwa location, Nyang'oma division, Bondo district of Nyanza province, in 2002-2003. Luo knowledge comprises the names of illnesses, their signs, causes, the seasons when they are more prevalent, as well as how to prevent and cure them. The paper shows that Luo knowledge of some diseases fits the conventional scientific nomenclature, while others - such as 'aremo', 'aginga' and 'jimo' - do not quite fit the scientific typology. The paper recommends that local perceptions should be taken into consideration by extension workers and practitioners in order to make their communication and curative work more effective