Tsetse and trypanosomiasis control problems in south-east Uganda: past, present and alternative strategies

Abstract

Tsetse and trypanosomiasis in South-East Uganda are reviewed. This paper examines why in nearly 100 years no appreciable progress has been made in tsetse and trypanosomiasis control. It points out that tsetse control strategies in the past have relied on sophisticated technologies such as aerial spraying, which are inappropriate to Uganda's economic and environmental situation. With the vector, G. f. fuscipes, being peridomestic and the transmission cycle undoubtedly domestic animal-fly-man, community participation using appropriate technologies such as low-cost traps/targets and integrating farming activity with tsetse control seem to be the most appropriate approach in South-East Uganda. Savings in expenditure on vector control are discussed in light of diminishing resources.