Strategies for control of coccidia infections in chickens in Kenya and Tanzania, while maintaining the efficacy of anticoccidials

Project Team: L.W. Njagi, J.C. Nganga, N. Maingi, E. Mafie

Scientist in the Department of Veterinary Pathology, Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Nairobi and the Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Parasitology, Sokoine University of Agriculture are currently implementing a research and capacity building project funded by the World Association for Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology Africa Network (WAAVP-AN). The three years (1^st April 2025 to 31^st March 2028) project aims at enhancing the control of coccidiosis in chickens in Kenya and Tanzania, while maintaining the efficacy of available anticoccidials. Coccidiosis is one of the most common and economically important diseases of chickens globally. In Kenya and Tanzania, anticoccidial drugs are widely used to control the infections, without clear regulations. In addition, the prevalent species of Eimeria in the chickens in these countries are unknown and there is no documentation of the use of the drugs and their effectiveness.

This project will bridge these gaps through research and enhance capacity and availability of information on diagnosis and control of coccidiosis among relevant stakeholders. The impact will be improved chicken health, productivity, higher incomes, reduced use of commercial anticoccidials, minimize risks of drug resistance and production of drug-free chicken products.