Exploring farmers’ knowledge, attitudes and control practices on ixodid tick in the context of climate change of South Kivu province, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract Cattle farming plays a vital role in the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in South Kivu, DR Congo, serving as one of the few key sources of income. Despite its importance, ticks and tick-borne diseases pose significant challenges to cattle health and productivity. However, there is a notable lack of research on farmers’ knowledge and management practices related to ticks in the context of climate change in this region. This gap in understanding hinders the development of effective strategies for managing tick infestations and mitigating their impact on livestock. This study was aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of livestock farmers in South Kivu concerning tick infestations and their management, as well as evaluating the impact of climate change on the distribution, abundance, and severity of tick-borne diseases. The study was conducted in Kabare, Kalehe, Uvira, and Walungu territories of the South Kivu province. A cross-sectional survey, considering farmers density, was performed with 699 livestock farmers (102 from Uvira, 122 from Walungu, 140 from Kalehe and 335 from Kabare) using semi-structured interviews to collect data on herd management, tick control methods, and farmers’ perceptions of climate change. Caretakerage was the dominant farming system (72.4%), with community pastures (67.1%) being the primary grazing area. Mortality rates were significant, with high neonatal losses and disease-related deaths. Tick infestations were highly recurrent at farm level (57.7%), with the most reported effects being blood spoliation (96.1%) and disease transmission (59.8%). Annual tick abundance peaked in July–August (> 90%), while forests, bushlands, and community pastures were identified as hotspots for tick proliferation (75.2% in Uvira). Although 77.2% of farmers conducted tick inspections, only 23.6% received formal tick management training. Spray races was commonly practiced (84.5%), but knowledge of ticks and tick borne diseases was limited (50.4%). Acaricide application was the most commonly used (99.8%), yet as a control approach, it was moderately rated as effective (47.6%). Adoption of zoosanitary products was influenced by gender, age, financial resources, and extension service access (p < 0.001). Climate change perceptions varied, with 20.6% of farmers reporting increased tick abundance and 16.9% noting rising disease incidence. This study exhibits the problems related to ticks management in cattle of the South Kivu province, especially in the context of climate change. Strengthening farmer education, access to affordable veterinary services, and integrated tick management are essential for sustainable livestock health and productivity.