Research Articles (DVM)

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A 13-year retrospective study of the beef and dairy cattle losses at Neudamm farm in the Khomas region of Namibia
(2017) Kandiwa, Erick; Madzingira, Oscar; Mushonga, Borden; Samkange, Alaster; Bishi, Alec S.; Nyoni, Nellia Felicity
This study was carried out to get an appraisal of the losses occasioned by apparently high levels of stock mortality at Neudamm farm, University of Namibia. Losses of beef cattle (Afrikaner, Simmental and Sanga/Nguni) and dairy cattle (Friesian) were studied from July 2003 to December 2015. A total of 106 animals worth US$55 263.12 and representing 3.5% (SD=0.8%) of the animals at risk were lost during this period. In the years 2004, 2006, 2007, 2010, 2012, 2013 and 2014 the cattle losses were more than 1.5% whereas in 2005, 2008, 2011 and 2015 the losses were 1.0-1.5%. The lowest losses (<1.0%) occurred in 2003 and 2009. Since 2005, overall cattle losses rapidly increased until 2010 followed by a gradual decrease till 2015. Though there was no significant difference in the overall losses between male {3.4% (SD=0.7%)} and female animals {3.8% (SD=0.9%)} during the study period (P>0.05), the female losses were significantly higher than the male losses (P<0.05) in all the years except 2011 during which there was no significant difference between male and female losses (P>0.05). There were significantly more mature animals lost from 2003 to 2009 and from 2013 to 2014 (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the mature and immature losses in 2012 (P>0.05). The losses in immature cattle were higher than those of mature cattle in 2010, 2011 and 2015 (P<0.05). The proportions of animals lost due to predation, unknown causes, dystocia, infections, trauma, old age, plant intoxication and traumatic reticulo-peritonitis were 29.2%, 29.2%, 14.2%, 11.3%, 9.4%, 4.7%, 0.9% and 0.9%, respectively. For the duration under study, the proportional losses in January, February, April, November and December were significantly higher than those of the rest of the months (P<0.05). Neudamm farm lost 3.5% of their beef and dairy stock, worth US$55 263.12, over a 13 year period as a result of infectious and non-infectious causes. The dynamics of the losses were such that the losses were higher in some years than others, more young than older animals were lost and, though not statistically significant, more females were lost than males.
A 3-year prospective study of the incidence of gastric ulcers in pigs slaughtered at base abattoir in Rwanda
(2017) Mushonga, Borden; Yabaragiye, Bernard; Kandiwa, Erick; Habarugira, Gervais; Samkange, Alaster
Aim: Determination of the incidence of gastric ulcers in pigs slaughtered at Base Abattoir in Rwanda. Materials and Methods: Stomachs from all 5040 pigs that were slaughtered at Base Abattoir in Rwanda from August 2012 to August 2015 were examined for the presence and location of gastric ulcers. The results of the inspections were recorded and analyzed. Statistical analysis for Chi-square values was performed using the Software Package for Social Sciences version 16.0. The Z test for comparison of proportions was used and p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: Overall as well as per district, significantly more male pigs than female pigs were slaughtered (p<0.05). The incidence of gastric ulcers in slaughter pigs was 12.86%. The incidence of gastric ulcers in males (13.36%) was not significantly different (p>0.05) from that in female pigs (12.84%) in all three districts. A significantly greater proportion of these ulcers (69.03%) was located in the esophageal region than in the glandular region of the stomach (30.97%) in slaughtered males (p<0.05). A significantly greater proportion of these ulcers (79.59%) was located in the esophageal region than in the glandular region of the stomach (20.41%) in slaughtered females (p<0.05). The overall incidence of esophageal ulcers (9.44%) in the slaughtered pigs was significantly (p<0.05) higher than that of glandular region ulcers (3.41%). Pigs with carcass weight over 60 kg showed a significantly (p<0.05) higher (44.44%) incidence of ulcers than those between 40 and 60 kg (33.33%) and those below 40 kg (22.22%). Conclusion: It was concluded that the incidence of gastric ulceration in slaughter pigs at Base Abattoir was not associated with source (district) or sex of pigs but was associated with the carcass weight.
A 4-year study of the proportional distribution of male reproductive organ abnormalities in cattle slaughtered at Nyagatare abattoir, Eastern Rwanda
(2017) Kandiwa, Erick; Nyirakunzimana, Leoncie; Habarugira, Gervais; Mushonga, Borden; Samkange, Alaster
Male reproductive performance has more impact on overall herd productivity than in the female. In order to assess herd productivity in cattle in Nyagatare, Eastern Rwanda, the proportional distribution of male reproductive organ abnormalities was investigated in 3087 bulls slaughtered over a 4-year period. The aim of the study was to investigate the proportional distribution of male reproductive organ abnormalities in exotic and indigenous bulls slaughtered over a 4-year period at Nyagatare abattoir in Eastern Rwanda. Positioning of the testicles was observed and recorded as the animals were assembled before slaughter. After slaughter, the internal and external reproductive organs of all bulls were removed, labelled and analysed for pathology. Significantly more indigenous (79.01%) than exotic (20.99%) animals were slaughtered (P < 0.05; N = 3 087). Overall occurrence of abnormalities was significantly higher in exotic (20.83%) than in indigenous (10.33%) animals (P < 0.05). Overall, abnormal location of testicles was the most common abnormality (4.08%) followed by abnormal prepuce and penis (2.33%), orchitis (1.94%), enlarged vesicular gland (0.91%), scrotal hernia (0.87%), unilateral cryptorchidism (0.81%), testicular hypoplasia (0.81%) and hydrocoele (0.78%). Abnormal location of testicles, abnormal prepuce and penis, orchitis, testicular hypoplasia and enlarged vesicular glands had significantly higher prevalence in exotic animals than in indigenous animals (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of unilateral cryptorchidism, hydrocoele and scrotal hernia between the exotic and indigenous breeds. The encountered reproductive abnormalities result in poor herd fertility manifesting as low first-service conception rates, prolonged breeding seasons and reduced weaning weights accompanied by inevitable financial losses in beef production. The observed high proportion of male reproductive abnormalities in exotic breeds might offset the professed benefits from introduction of these exotic breeds with the aim of improving productivity.
Applicability of teeth examination as a tool for age estimation in a semi-arid cattle production environment in Namibia
(2019) Mushonga, Borden; Shinexuugi, Immanuel; Mbiri, Pricilla; Samkange, Alaster; Madzingira, Oscar; Kandiwa, Erick
Regression analysis was used to evaluate teeth examination as a tool for estimating age in beef and dairy cattle at Neudamm farm, Namibia, in 2018. There was a significant difference in age (months) between the overall mean actual age (M=60, SD=4.57) and the mean estimated age (M=57, SD=4.52 months) in beef cattle; t(74) = 3.61, p<0.001. There was no significant difference between the overall mean estimated age and the mean actual age (M=42.5, SD=5.18) and (M=41.3, SD=5.21 months) in dairy cattle; t(30) = 1.45, p=0.16. There was a very strong positive relationship between the overall teeth examination-estimated age and actual age in beef cattle [r (74) = 0.98, p<0.001]. There was a very strong positive relationship between the overall teeth examination-estimated age and actual age in dairy cattle [r (30) = 0.99, p<0.001]. A very strong positive relationship was also evident between the teeth examination estimated age and actual age in beef cattle aged 45 months and below [r (37) = 0.93, p<0.001]. There was a very strong positive relationship between the teeth examination-estimated and actual age in dairy cattle aged 45 months and below [r (20) = 0.97, p<0.001]. There was a very strong positive relationship between the teeth examination-estimated age and actual age in beef cattle aged over 45 months [r (35) = 0.93, p<0.001]. There was a very strong positive relationship between the teeth examination-estimated age and actual age in dairy cattle aged over 45 months [r (8) = 0.97, p<0.001]. It was therefore concluded that under the given conditions of the study and the range of ages and the breeds under study, age estimation through teeth examination is reliably applicable
Artificial insemination in Nyagatare district: Level of adoption and the factors determining its adoption
(2017) Mushonga, Borden; Dusabe, Jean P.; Kandiwa, Erick; Bhebhe, Evison; Habarugira, Gervais; Samkange, Alaster
This study was undertaken to characterize and to estimate the level of adoption of artificial insemination (AI) as well as to identify factors determining its adoption by communal farmers of Nyagatare, Rwanda. This followed the launching of the official Government AI programme in the district several years earlier. A questionnaire was used to carry out a survey of the breeding methods used for small scale dairy cows by farmers from five selected sectors of Nyagatare district of the Eastern Province of Rwanda. Of the 360 respondents, 16.9% primarily used AI, 63.1% used natural service and 20.0% used both methods for breeding. A significant percentage of respondents residing within 5km of the AI centres (79.2%; P<0.05) adopted AI whilst a significant percentage of respondents residing more than 15km from AI centres (92.5%; P<0.05) preferred natural service. A significant percentage of respondents from big families with 6-7 members were using AI (54.1%; P<0.05), whilst all the respondents from small families with up to 3 members opted for natural service (100% P<0.05). A significant percentage of respondents with secondary education (76.9%; P<0.05) opted for AI whilst a significant percentage of respondents with no formal education (98.5%; P < 0.05) opted for natural service alone. A significant percentage of respondents working in both agriculture and animal husbandry (93.1%; P<0.05) opted for AI whilst a significant percentage of respondents working in crop production and other none animal husbandry related sectors (93.2%; P<0.05) opted for natural service alone. Land size in excess of 5 hectares did not significantly influence adoption of AI. The study showed that there were several underlying factors that had the potential to influence farmers' choice of breeding methods. Chief among these factors are level of education of farmer, family size, distance to AI station and occupation in agriculture or animal husbandry.
Assessment of Salmonela, escherichia coli, enterobacteriaceae and aerobic colony counts contamination levels during the beef slaughter process
(2016) Nyamakwere, F.; Muchenje, Voster; Mushonga, Borden; Makepe, Morris; Mutero, Gabriel
The study was conducted to determine the level of Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Enterobacteriaceae and aerobic colony counts (ACCs) contamination in beef carcass, equipment, slaughtermen hands and water at selected stages in abattoirs. Cattle carcasses were sampled at four sites (rump, neck, flank and brisket) from a low throughput (LTA) (n5240) and high throughput (HTA) (n5384) abattoirs. Using conventional biochemical tests, HTA yielded significantly higher ACC (5.2log CFU/cm2), E. coli (2.6 log CFU/cm2) and Enterobacteriaceae (2.9 log CFU/cm2) mean scores after skinning and evisceration. Washing and chilling did not cause any significant (P>0.05) changes in bacterial counts. This implies use of non-potable water and poor chilling methods. Salmonella was not detected on all sampled carcasses. Overall, slaughtermen hands and equipment in the dirty area yielded more bacterial counts compared to clean area from both abattoirs. Therefore, these findings show that the equipment, slaughtermen hands and water are sources of contamination during the slaughter process.
Avian influenza H5N8 outbreak in African penguins (Spheniscus demersus), Namibia, 2019
(2020) Molini, Umberto; Aikukutu, Gottlieb; Roux, Jean-Paul; Kemper, Jessica; Ntahonshikira, Charles; Marruchella, Giuseppe; Khaiseb, S.; Cattoli, Giovanni; Dundon, William G.
In January 2019, high mortalities were reported among African Penguins (Spheniscus demersus) in a breeding colony on Halifax Island, Namibia, Africa. Analysis of samples by reverse transcription quantitative PCR indicated the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) subtype H5N8. Sequence analysis of the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase genes confirmed the presence of the virus in the birds and its high similarity to HPAI subtype H5N8 identified in South Africa in 2017. There have been no previous reports of HPAI H5N8 in Namibia.
Bovine mastitis prevalence and associated risk factors in dairy cows in Nyagatare District, Rwanda
(2015) Iraguha, Blaise; Hamudikuwanda, Humphrey; Mushonga, Borden
In response to farmer requests after milk from their herds was rejected by processors due to poor quality, a study was carried out from April to October 2011 to determine the prevalence of subclinical mastitis, associated risk factors and causative micro-organisms. Samples were collected from 195 dairy cows on 23 randomly selected dairy farms delivering milk to Isangano, Kirebe and Nyagatare milk collection centres in Nyagatare District, Rwanda. The Draminski Mastitis Detector was used to detect subclinical mastitis in individual cows based on milk electrical conductivity changes. Risk factors for mastitis that were evaluated included teat-end condition, cow dirtiness, breed, parity, age and stage of lactation. Relationships of these factors with mastitis status were determined using Chi-square analysis, and relative importance as causes of mastitis was assessed using logistic regression. Samples from 16 subclinical mastitis positive dairy cows were analysed to identify causative micro-organisms using Dairy Quality Control Inspection analytical kits. Subclinical mastitis prevalence was 52% across the farms. It was higher with increases in, amongst other risk factors, teat-end damage severity, cow dirtiness, and level of pure dairy breed genetics. The risk factors considered accounted for 62% of mastitis prevalence; teat-end condition alone accounted for 30%. Most of the mastitis cases (87.5%) were caused by coliform bacteria. Considering that farmers are upgrading their local Ankole cows to cross-breed dairy cows that are more susceptible to mastitis, results from this study indicate the need to dip the teats of cows in sanitisers, improve cow hygiene, and introduce mastitis prevention and control programmes.
Cadmium and lead levels in three freshwater fish species from the Zambezi region, Namibia
(African Journal of Aquatic Science, 2020-09-01) Madzingira, Oscar; Mushonga, Borden; Kandiwa, Erick; kandjengo, Leneekela
Muscle tissue from three-spotted tilapia (Oreochromis andersonii) (n = 11), sharp tooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus) (n = 14) and tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus) (n = 12) were sampled from a market in the Zambezi region, Namibia in June 2018 and analysed for cadmium and lead. Cadmium was not detected in the three fish species. Mean lead levels in all three fish species (0.09–0.19 mg kg−1) were below the recommended safe level of 0.3 mg kg−1. Catfish had the highest mean lead concentrations, followed by tigerfish and tilapia in descending order. However, the differences in mean lead concentrations between the three fish species were not statistically significant (ANOVA, p = 0.18). These results show that the fish tested were safe for human consumption with respect to the metals tested. It is recommended that more metals and other contaminants, such as pesticides, be monitored robustly in water, sediment and fish, using the recommended protocols, in order to generate data that can be reliably used for human health risk assessments in the future.
Causes, dynamics and financial losses associated with red offal condemnation at a beef abattoir in Namibia
(Journal of Food Hygiene and Safety, 2020-12-01) Kandiwa, Erick; Mbiri, Pricilla; Samkange, Alaster; Madzingira, Oscar; Kamwi, Jessey Alice; Mushonga, Borden
There are limited studies on red offal condemnations and financial implications at high throughput abattoirs in Namibia. Causes of condemnation, temporal distributions and financial losses associated with red offal condemnations at a beef abattoir in Namibia from 2016 to 2018 were investigated. A total of 39157 red offal valued at N$6 422 586.00 (US$364 805) were condemned following the slaughter of 251697 cattle. Condemnations were dependent on year [X2(14) = 587.13, p<0.001], month [X2(77) = 1898.72, p<0.001] and season [X2(7) = 111.12, p<0.001] of study. Overall, 2016 had the most and 2018 the least condemnation of red offal (38.73% and 23.22%, respectively; p<0.05). Most red offal condemnations (13.34%, p<0.001) were recorded in June, with livers and lungs as the most condemned organs (54.32% and 29.88%, respectively; p<0.001). The highest condemnations were caused by miscellaneous causes (abscesses and hematomas) followed, in descending order, by inflammatory, parasitic and bacterial causes and contaminations (38.3%, 29.4%, 16.6% and 15.8%, respectively, p<0.05). Liver condemnations varied with the year and season of study [X2(20) = 1834.02, p<0.001 and X2(9) = 1010.43, p<0.001; respectively], as were lung condemnations according to pathological condition [X2(12) = 492.43, p<0.001 and X2(6) = 45.84, p<0.001; respectively]. The occurrence of hydatidosis in the summer and pneumonia in winter was greater than expected (15.1% and 4.3%; respectively, p<0.05). A substantial loss of revenue to the abattoir due to the condemnation of livers and lungs was determined. Meat inspection served as a control point for hydatidosis.
Causes, patterns, and economic implications of carcass condemnation of cattle slaughtered at Oshana region, North of Namibia based on post-mortem inspection
(Journal of Food Quality and Hazards Control, 2020-12-01) Mbiri, Pricilla; Mushonga, Borden; Madzinga, Charles; Madzingira, Oscar; Samkange, Alaster; Hikufe, Emmanuel H.; Kandiwa, Erick; Kamwi, Jessey Alice
Background: Meat inspection is one of the essential tools for ensuring good quality and safe meat. The objective of this study was to evaluate carcass condemnation of cattle slaughtered in Oshana region, North of Namibia. Methods: In this 4-year retrospective study, causes, patterns, and economic implications of carcass condemnation of cattle slaughtered in Oshana region, North of Namibia were evaluated based on post-mortem inspection procedure. The SPSS software version 25 was used for statistical analysis. Results: Overall, 0.37% (120 out of 32 648) beef carcasses were condemned during the period of this study. The major causes of condemnation of carcasses were bruising (60 out of 120; 50%), followed by pus contamination. The condemnation rate in female cattle (65%) was significantly (p<0.05) higher than male cattle (35%). Overall, a significantly greater number (p<0.05) of carcasses were condemned in summer (74.2%) than in winter (25.8%). Conclusion: This study identified bruising, pus contamination, and cachexia as the major causes of bovine carcass condemnation in North of Namibia and showed that carcass condemnation rate varied with the year, season, and age. (11) (PDF) Causes, Patterns, and Economic Implications of Carcass Condemnation of Cattle Slaughtered at Oshana Region, North of Namibia Based on Post-Mortem Inspection. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/347958128_Causes_Patterns_and_Economic_Implications_of_Carcass_Condemnation_of_Cattle_Slaughtered_at_Oshana_Region_North_of_Namibia_Based_on_Post-Mortem_Inspection [accessed Jun 25 2021].
Characterisation of oestrus cycles in Namibian Swakara and Damara sheep through determination of circannual plasma progesterone levels
(2019) Kandiwa, Erick; Mushonga, Borden; Madzingira, Oscar
A year-long prospective study characterized the seasonality of oestrus cycles in primiparous, nonpregnant Swakara (n=8) and Damara (n=5) ewes through surveillance of plasma progesterone (P4) levels. During this period, Swakara and Damara groups evidently averaged 23 oestrus cycles with an average length of 17 days. Damara ewes showed greater mean peak plasma P4 levels (11.4±0.16ng/ml) than Swakara ewes (5.4±0.11ng/ml) (P<0.05).Oestrus cycles inDamara ewes showed relatively uniform plasma P4 peaks throughout the year ranging from 10.6±0.16 to 12.6±0.24ng/ml. In Swakara ewes, P4 peaks were highest in the autumn oestrus cycles (from7.1±0.16 to 7.5±0.11ng/ml), rapidly declining through winter to 2.2±0.08ng/ml by midspring and then rapidly increasing to 4.9±0.37ng/ml at the commencement of summer, followed by a gradual increase from 5.7± to 7.1±ng/ml by the start of autumn. The annual mean area under the curve temporal progesterone measurements (AUCPM) in Damara ewes (115.9±18.6ng∗day/ml) was greater than that in Swakara ewes (58.6±25.3ng∗day/ml) (p<0.05). For Swakara ewes, the mean AUCPM in summer and autumn cycles (68.2±14.7 and 79.5±10.0ng∗day/ml, respectively) were greater than those in spring and winter cycles (28.7±12.3 and 55.0±27.3ng∗day/ml), respectively (P<0.05). There was no seasonal variation in the exposure of the Damara ewes to P4 in between seasons (P>0.05), though, however, the Damara ewes had greater P4 levels than the Swakara ewes (P<0.05). Progesterone profiles showed that Swakara ewes possessed ‘residual’ seasonality, whereas the Damara ewes were no longer seasonal.The implications of this disparity in the seasonal exposure of Swakara and Damara ewes to luteal P4 on fertility warrant further investigation.
Characterization of poultry production and management systems in the communal areas of Namibia
(2018) Masaire, E.; Madzingira, Oscar; Samkange, Alaster; Kandiwa, Erick; Mushonga, Borden; Bishi, Alec S.
A survey was conducted on 485 respondents from eight regions of Namibia to characterize their poultry production systems. The overall mean proportions of literacy level were, secondary (33.6%), illiterate (31.5%), primary (27.3%), unspecified (4.0%) and tertiary (2.9%). The estimated chicken population in the whole study area covering 347 510 km2 was about 1.84 million and the estimated chicken density was 14.1 chickens/ km2. Overall, 76.1% of the interviewed households owned chickens with an overall mean of 20 chickens/household. Overall, 20.4% of the chickens were young females, 23.8% adult females, 14.2% young males, 9.7% adult males and 31.9% chicks. Overall, an average of 11 eggs/hen/clutch were laid with 74.3% mean hatchability. These hatched chicks had an average of 56% survival after four weeks. Overall, 33.5% of the chickens were lost due to disease, 27.1% consumed within households, 21.8% killed by predators, 7.9% sold, 6.5% stolen, 2% due to starvation and 1.3% as a result of traumatic injuries. Overall, 60.2% of the sick chickens were treated with local medicinal herbs, 14.3% slaughtered, 3.7% treated by conventional veterinary medicine, whilst 9.5% were vaccinated and 6.2% were treated by local veterinarians. Overall, 53.3% of the households used no housing for chickens, 9.8% used wire mesh housing, 7.0% used corrugated metal sheet housing and 4.9% used thatched brick and mud housing. Overall, 77.7% of the chickens were fed on maize or millet grain, 38.1% on free range forages, 12.5% on household leftovers and 4.1% on commercial feed. In conclusion, based on the survey, chickens in these study areas were reared extensively on raw grains with most owners using traditional methods to treat sick birds and failing to house their flocks to result in high losses to diseases and predators. This study indicated that the education of Namibian communal farmers to improve poultry husbandry would reduce losses and possibly increase profitability of communal poultry enterprise.
Characterization of the beekeeping value chain: Challenges, perceptions, limitations, and opportunities for beekeepers in Kayonza district, Rwanda
(2019) Mushonga, Borden; Hategekimana, Landouard; Habarugira, Gervais
A survey was undertaken to characterize the honey production value chain and identify the challenges, limitations, and opportunities for beekeepers in Kayonza District, Eastern Rwanda, in light of the stagnation of the apiculture industry. The majority (86%, n = 100) of the beekeepers were adultmales.Most of the respondents (71%) lacked primary level education. The majority of the hives were made from hollow tree logs (40%), tree barks (12%), banana leaves/bark (11%), cowdung (8%),mud (7%), grass (6%), tree leaves (6%), and the rest (20%) were improved beehives, particularly Langstroth hives.The hive pests encountered were hive beetles (25%), small black ants (19%), waxmoths (12%), lizards (8%), termites (7%), birds (6%), mites (3%), and mice (2%). Fifty-five percent of the respondents hung their hives on trees to prevent pest invasion with 95% effectiveness, 25%frequently smoked their hives with 85% effectiveness, 16% cleared the bushes around apiaries with 55% effectiveness, and 4% used traditional plant insect repellents with 35% effectiveness. Forty-one percent of the respondents lacked adequate information on beekeeping, 25% had inadequate time to work on apiaries, 24% had inadequate technical knowledge and implements, and 10% needed additional labour for managing apiaries. Based on the results of this study, beekeeping in Kayonza is still largely traditional, characterized by the use of antiquated production methods and underutilization of available marketing channels. Perceptions in the district are that beekeeping is for the poor and illiterate. Challenges and limitations of beekeeping in Kayonza District include lack of education, gender bias, pests and diseases, absconding and swarming of bees, high costs, and lack of modern apicultural equipment. However, the potential for developing beekeeping enterprise (opportunities) is immense given the abundance of wild bee populations, possibility of women participation, abundance of honey collection centres (market), and availability of technical support from Government and development agencies. In conclusion, this study advocates the need for intervention measures to educate and promote production and marketing of quality honey, tackle pest and disease for beekeepers and boost Rwanda’s apiculture industry.
Chronic lymphoplasmacytic villonodular proliferative synovitis in a 10-year-old Jack Russell Terrier dog
(International Journal of Veterinary Science and Medicine, 2020-11-01) Mapuvire, Tafara; Kandiwa, Erick; Mbiri, Pricilla; Samkange, Alaster; Madzingira, Oscar; Mushonga, Borden
We describe a case of chronic lymphoplasmacytic villonodular synovitis (CLPVNS) associated with cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease in a 10-year-old spayed Jack Russell Terrier bitch. The bitch was presented to a veterinary clinic with severe, non-weight bearing, acute left hindlimb lameness. The bitch had previously been treated surgically for stifle CCL disease of the same joint, using the lateral fabellar suture (LFS) technique. Since the treatment, the patient had a history of intermittent left hindlimb non-weight bearing lameness that was manageable with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Palpation and manipulation of the affected stifle elicited severe pain. There were no other clinical or orthopaedic abnormalities. Orthogonal radiographs of the affected stifle revealed moderate degenerative joint disease and osteolytic lesions on the lateral aspect of the lateral femoral condyle and the head of the fibula. A fluid aspirate from this joint was negative for bacterial growth on culture. Cytology results were suspicious for CLPVNS. Exploratory arthrotomy, synovectomy, debridement and lavage of the affected joint were performed. Bone and synovial membrane biopsy samples of the joint were obtained and submitted to a laboratory for a histopathological confirmatory diagnosis. CLPVNS was tentatively diagnosed by cytology, and confirmed by histopathology of biopsy samples. This case report highlights the importance of checking for CLPVNS in dogs with lameness associated with CCL disease, as reports show it to be underreported or misdiagnosed (11) (PDF) Chronic lymphoplasmacytic villonodular proliferative synovitis in a 10-year-old Jack Russell Terrier dog. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/346003151_Chronic_lymphoplasmacytic_villonodular_proliferative_synovitis_in_a_10-year-old_Jack_Russell_Terrier_dog [accessed Jun 25 2021].
Comparison of cow-side diagnostic tests for subclinical mastitis of dairy cows in Musanze district, Rwanda
(2017) Iraguha, Blaise; Hamudikuwanda, Humphrey; Mushonga, Borden; Kandiwa, Erick; Mpatswenumugabo, Jean P.
Four subclinical mastitis diagnostic tests (the UdderCheck® test [a lactate dehydrogenasebased test], the California Mastitis Test [CMT], the Draminski® test [a conductivity-based test] and the PortaSCC® test [a portable somatic cell count-based test]) were compared in a study comprising crossbreed dairy cows (n = 30) during September and October 2015. Sensitivity and specificity of the CMT, Draminski® and UdderCheck® tests were compared with the PortaSCC® as reference. The CMT, Draminski® and UdderCheck® test results were compared with the results of the PortaSCC® test using kappa statistics. Duplicate quarter milk samples (n = 120) were concurrently subjected to the four tests. Sensitivity and specificity were 88.46% and 86.17% (CMT), 78.5% and 81.4% (Draminski®) and 64.00% and 78.95% (UdderCheck®). The CMT showed substantial agreement (k = 0.66), the Draminski® test showed moderate agreement (k = 0.48) and the UdderCheck® test showed fair agreement (k = 0.37) with the PortaSCC® test and positive likelihood ratios were 6.40, 4.15 and 3.04, respectively. The cow-level subclinical mastitis prevalence was 70%, 60%, 60% and 56.7% for PortaSCC®, CMT, Draminski® and UdderCheck® tests, respectively. At udder quarter level, subclinical mastitis prevalence was 20%, 21.67% and 20.83% for PortaSCC®, CMT and UdderCheck®, respectively. A correlation (P < 0.05) and moderate strength of association were found between the four tests used. The study showed that compared to the PortaSCC® test, the CMT was the most preferable option, followed by the Draminski® test, while the UdderCheck® test was the least preferable option for subclinical mastitis screening.
Complete coding sequences of lumpy skin disease virus strains isolated from cutaneous lesions in Namibian cattle during 2016 outbreaks
(2020) Di Felice, Elisabetta; Pinoni, Chiara; Khaiseb, S.; Camma, Cesare; Dondona, Andrea Capobianco; Polci, Andrea; Molini, Umberto; Monaco, Federica
Between September and October 2016, an outbreak of lumpy skin disease (LSD) was monitored in the Okakarara veterinary district of Namibia. The complete coding sequences were obtained for LSD virus isolates from skin nodules from two symptomatic animals.
Determination of fertility, hatchability and stage of embryonic death in non-hatching eggs at Rubilizi national hatchery
(2017) Mushonga, Borden; Benimana, Theophile; Kandiwa, Erick; Chinyoka, Simbarashe; Samkange, Alaster; Bishi, Alec S.; Habarugira, Gervais
Background: This study was undertaken to evaluate the major causes of mortality at different stages of incubation and their economic impact in response to sustainability challenges at the Rwandan National Hatchery. Methods: The study evaluated the fertility, hatchability and embryonic deaths in broiler-producing flocks (B series) and layer-producing flocks (L series) at Rubilizi, a state-owned hatchery in Kigali, Rwanda. Results: Mean fertility in the B series (94.23%) was not significantly different (P >0.05) from that of the L series (93.24%). Mean hatchability in the B series (57.39%) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that of the L series (42.2%). Early embryonic deaths in the L series (8.6%) were significantly (P<0.05) higher than those in the B series (3.9%). Middle embryonic deaths in the L series (6.2%) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those in the B series (1.8%). Late embryonic deaths in the L series (21.6%) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those encountered in the B series (13.0%). The occurrence of hatch debris in the L series (34.14%) was significantly (P<0.05) higher than that in the B series (24.42%). There was no significant difference in the proportions of pips, rots and malformations/malpositions between the B and the L series (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Low hatchability in the L series possibly resulted from the higher number of embryonic deaths and hatch debris and not from reduced fertility or cull chicks. Total chick losses during the study amounted to US$54 327.00. The hatchery was experiencing more losses in layers than in broilers as emanating from low hatchability of the layers. Further investigations are needed with aim to maximise the hatchery’s capacity.
An epidemiological survey of the magnitude and local perceptions of porcine cysticercosis by two methods in Nyaruguru district, Rwanda
(University of Namibia, 2018) Mushonga, Borden; Habarugira, Gervais; Birori, Aloys; Kandiwa, Erick; Samkange, Alaster; Bhebhe, Evison
This study investigated the magnitude of porcine cysticercosis (PC), its risk factors, economic effects and the perceptions of 80 pig farmers from Nyabimata (n=38) and Muganza (n=42) and 20 registered butchers in the Nyaruguru district of Rwanda. January to December 2013 slaughter records from Kamirabagenzi market were also analysed for PC diagnoses based on the tongue test and meat inspection. During this period, the responding farmers' records showed a tongue test-based PC magnitude (3.9%, n=984) which was lower than the collective tongue test-based PC magnitude of 9.2% (n=1720) at Kamirabagenzi (p < .05). The overall magnitude of PC based on routine meat inspection diagnosis at Kamirabagenzi was 4%. The overall magnitude of PC for respondents using Free-range production systems (7.9%) was significantly greater than for those in Semi-intensive (2.1%) and Intensive production systems (1.5%) (p < .05). Though most farmers (90%) knew that PC is zoonotic, only 22.5% of the farmers opted for treatment of PC-infected pigs and 52.5% were willing to seek veterinary inspection while the rest (25%) opted to circumvent veterinary inspection (P > .05). Most butchers (70%) indicated they would circumvent veterinary inspection and continue to slaughter PC-positive animals whilst the rest (30%) indicated they would resell PC positive animals to defray costs (P < .05). The low sensitivity and specificity of methods used for PC detection in the study, implies that this may just be the tip of an iceberg and the actual magnitude is most likely to be much higher. In conclusion, PC is endemic in the Nyaruguru district of Rwanda with a high proportion of positive animals. The condition has public health implications and is worsening the economic plight of the impoverished Nyaruguru community.
Evaluation of meat safety knowledge, attitudes and practices among slaughter house workers of Amathole District in eastern Cape Province, South Africa
(2017) Nyamakwere, F.; Muchenje, Voster; Mushonga, Borden; Kandiwa, Erick; Makepe, Morris; Mutero, Gabriel
Good slaughter hygiene practices are mandatory to minimize chances of microbiological contamination during meat processing. Thus, knowledge and training in meat safety are important to improve attitudes of workers who are reported to frequently engage in poor handling practices. The objective of the study was to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes towards meat safety and personal hygiene of slaughter personnel from low throughput (LTA’s) and high throughput abattoirs (HTA’s). Data were collected using structured questionnaires with questions on some important meat safety cues. About 40% of abattoir employees attained secondary education and this was significantly greater than those with no education (25%), primary (26.7%) and tertiary (8.3%) (P<0.05). A significantly greater proportion of respondents (55%) had more than 5 years of experience compared to those with ≤5 years (P<0.05). Overall, a greater proportion of respondents had valid health certificates (62.5%), though a significant proportion (35%) were from the HTA’s. More medical examination defaulters (7.5%) were from LTA’s compared to HTAs (2.5%) (P<0.05). Majority (47.5%) of respondents were treated for illnesses in clinics or hospitals, whereas some self-medicated (22.5%), visited traditional healers (22.5%) and 7.5% went to pharmacies. Secondary and tertiary educated respondents who received professional training showed a significantly greater willingness to disinfect work clothes, contact surfaces and wear gloves (P<0.05). A significant proportion of respondents (70%) who received professional training showed greater willingness to report illness than untrained (P<0.05). In spite of results showing basic hygiene compliance, aspects such as medical examination and professional training still need improvement.

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