Knowledge and practices of biosecurity in aquaculture in Loumbila commune: farmers’ perceptions and health management implications, Burkina Faso

Abstract

<ns3:p>Background Fish farming was introduced in Burkina Faso in the 1950s to offset declining capture fisheries and enhance food security. In Loumbila commune, aquaculture has recently expanded, but its growth is constrained by aquatic diseases. Biosecurity, essential for preventing pathogen introduction and spread, remains poorly implemented by local farmers, raising concerns for sustainability. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 23 purposively selected operators. Data were collected through questionnaires and direct observations, using KoBo Toolbox, and analyzed descriptively with Excel and SPSS version 25. Results The majority of respondents were women (52%), adults (78%), predominantly married (78%), and relatively inexperienced (65% with less than two years of practice). Although 78% had heard of biosecurity, only 11% could define it accurately, and 65% had never received training. Reported practices included cleaning and disinfecting equipment and incinerating dead fish. However, critical gaps were observed, such as the absence of footbaths, limited water quality monitoring, and frequent sharing of equipment. Conclusions Biosecurity practices among aquaculture operators in Loumbila commune are insufficient to ensure fish health and sustainability. Addressing these deficiencies through training, policy support, and improved practices is essential to strengthen aquaculture’s contribution to food security and sustainable development in Burkina Faso and West Africa.</ns3:p>