Perceptions of The Health Risks of Local Poultry Farming and The Behaviour Of Urban and Peri-Urban Populations in The Town of Korhogo (Côte d'Ivoire).

Abstract

Poultry farming plays an important nutritional, economic and socio-cultural role in developing countries. The aim of this study is to analyse the perceptions of health risks associated with poultry farming activities in the vicinity of dwellings and the behaviour of the population of the town of Korhogo. To achieve this, a qualitative socio-anthropological approach was used. The data collected came from 97 semi-structured interviews and direct observation from 15 April to 27 May 2024 in the town of Korhogo. The main results show that local residents living near poultry farms are aware of the health risks to which they are exposed, but the balance of power between gains and risks explains their practices. Poultry farming close to homes has had an impact on local residents and their environment. Residents often suffer from respiratory ailments, allergies, soiling of their surroundings, odour nuisance and other noises. As for the environment, it has suffered pollution of its air and water quality, as well as soil degradation. The reasons why these poultry farmers decide to carry out their activities close to homes are environmental, economic, social and ethical. Hence the need to train young farmers to manage the nuisances generated by these poultry farming activities.