Tackling Acaricide Resistance in East Africa

Project team: H.K. Kiara, P. Vudriko, T. Bazarusanga, Y. Petro

Acaricide resistance in ticks presents a growing threat to livestock production, public health, and environmental sustainability in East Africa. This challenge is particularly acute in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda, where livestock systems are already under pressure from climate change, limited access to veterinary services, and inconsistent acaricide use. To address this urgent issue, the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), in collaboration with Makerere University (Uganda), the Tanzania Public Health Association (TPHA), the Directorates of Veterinary Services in Kenya and Rwanda, and Farmer Solutions Rwanda, is leading a regional research initiative aimed at mitigating acaricide resistance through a comprehensive, evidence-based approach.

The project seeks to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to acaricide use among farmers and veterinary stakeholders, while also examining policy frameworks, economic implications, and drivers of resistance. In addition, it will investigate both phenotypic and genotypic resistance mechanisms in tick populations across the four countries, with a particular focus on resistance to organophosphates and amitraz-based acaricides. The study will generate critical data on the prevalence and patterns of resistance in different production systems and tick species, laying the groundwork for targeted interventions.

A key component of the project involves standardizing and validating acaricide resistance bioassay protocols based on guidelines from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). This effort will support the establishment of reliable regional reference laboratories capable of consistent acaricide resistance testing, which is currently lacking across East Africa as well as support capacity building lab staff on acaricide resistance testing. By doing so, the project will significantly enhance regional capacity for resistance monitoring and management.

Ultimately, the project aims to propose practical, evidence-based strategies and policy recommendations to guide acaricide use and resistance mitigation. The findings will be instrumental in shaping regional policies and practices to preserve the effectiveness of acaricides, safeguard animal and human health, and support the resilience of livestock-based livelihoods in East Africa.