Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Livestock Owners Towards Anthrax in Kelafo District, Shabele Zone, Somali Region, Ethiopia

Abstract Background Anthrax is a major zoonotic disease affecting livestock and humans in Ethiopia, particularly in pastoralist communities. However, limited data exists on livestock owners' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) in the Somali Region, especially in Kelafo District. Objective This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of livestock owners towards anthrax in Kelafo District, Shabele Zone, Somali Region, Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March to May 2026. Using multi-stage stratified systematic random sampling, 384 livestock owners were selected and interviewed using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Results The majority of respondents were male (70.6%), farmers (93.4%), and aged over 55 years (45.1%). While 87.0% recognized animal anthrax signs and 81.5% vaccinated their animals, only 8.1% were aware of human anthrax signs, 12.5% practiced proper carcass disposal, and 88.5% had close contact with infected animals. Overall, 92% had poor knowledge and 85% demonstrated poor practices, though 74.2% showed positive attitudes. Conclusion and Recommendations : This study revealed a significant knowledge-practice gap among livestock owners in Kelafo District. Despite good awareness of animal anthrax, high vaccination coverage, and positive attitudes towards vaccination, critical preventive practices remain dangerously low. Urgent One Health interventions focusing on zoonotic risk education and safe carcass disposal are needed.