Inception Workshop of the project titled 'Support to the Control of Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases in Eswatini'

Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, esteemed stakeholders, representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, veterinary professionals, farmers, development partners, and colleagues,

It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of purpose that I stand before you today to launch the Technical Cooperation Programme (TCP) project titled “Support to the Control of Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases in Eswatini.”

The battle against ticks and TBDs in Eswatini is not a new one. Since the 19th century, when dipping was introduced to combat East Coast Fever, our nation has been grappling with the devastating impact of these parasites. Through concerted efforts, East Coast Fever was successfully eliminated by March 1960—a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. However, the persistence of tick vectors and the emergence of other TBDs, such as bovine babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and heartwater, continue to challenge our livestock sector.

Today, the prevalence of bovine babesiosis stands at an estimated 17%, with cerebral babesiosis becoming increasingly prominent. Bovine anaplasmosis, at 7%, poses significant problems, particularly for exotic breeds like dairy cattle. Heartwater, with a herd-level prevalence of 2%, is now appearing in areas where its vector was previously unknown. Additionally, reports of suspected tick bite fever in humans, though unconfirmed, raise concerns about the public health implications of ticks. These statistics underscore a stark reality: ticks and TBDs are not only a hindrance to livestock health, production, and productivity but also a growing threat to human well-being and food security. 

The Impact of Climate Change and Acaricide Resistance

The challenges we face today are compounded by the effects of climate change. Rising temperatures have led to an increase in tick populations, their types, activity levels, and geographical distribution. This has resulted in a surge in TBDs and tick-related issues such as abscesses, mastitis, and sweating sickness, which further undermine livestock productivity.

For decades, Eswatini has relied on dipping with the acaricide amitraz as the primary method of tick control, particularly in communal areas. Applied strategically to target adult ticks, amitraz has been critical in keeping tick populations below economically harmful thresholds. However, recent reports of tick resistance to amitraz are cause for concern. While a small-scale study in Eswatini found no definitive evidence of resistance, the sample size was not statistically significant.

Meanwhile, research from South Africa confirms that resistance to amidines, including amitraz, is a growing issue across the continent. This highlights an urgent need for an evidence-driven strategy to assess resistance levels, optimize acaricide use, and educate farmers and veterinary professionals on responsible practices.

The Vision of the TCP Project

The TCP project we launch today is a comprehensive response to these challenges. Its overarching goal is to reduce the burden of ticks and TBDs, thereby improving livestock health, enhancing food security, and strengthening livelihoods. By addressing these issues, we also contribute to the One Health approach, mitigating risks like tick bite fever that affect human health, and aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger.

The project is built on three key pillars:

• Mapping Tick Distribution: We will conduct a nationwide survey to identify and map tick populations across Eswatini’s agro-ecological zones. This will help us pinpoint high-risk areas for tick bites and TBDs, enabling targeted prevention and raising public health awareness. The development of a tick risk map and a comprehensive status report will provide a foundation for informed decision-making.
• Assessing Acaricide Resistance: Using the standardized FAO Acaricide Resistance Test Method (Adult Immersion Test), we will evaluate the effectiveness of amitraz against ticks in communal diptanks. The findings will inform policies on acaricide use, helping to prevent the development and spread of resistance.
• Strengthening Capacity: We will empower animal health workers, farmers, and dip tank committees through training on responsible acaricide use, integrated tick management, and biosecurity measures. By improving the management of communal diptanks and enhancing veterinary diagnostic and surveillance capacities, we aim to build a resilient system for TBD control.

The Role of Surveillance in Achieving Our Goals

Surveillance is the backbone of this project. By mapping tick distribution and monitoring resistance levels, we will create an early warning system to detect the emergence of ticks and novel tick-borne pathogens in new areas. This proactive approach will allow us to respond swiftly to outbreaks, protect livestock, and safeguard human health.

Active surveillance, including drag sampling to collect free-living ticks, will provide critical data on tick populations across different agro-ecological zones. This information will guide the development of targeted interventions and ensure that resources are allocated efficiently. Moreover, by strengthening the surveillance capacities of veterinary officers and laboratory personnel, we will enhance Eswatini’s ability to monitor and respond to TBDs in real time. 

Impact

The success of this project will be measured by tangible results. We aim to reduce the prevalence of TBDs—bovine babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and heartwater—by 50%, as verified through regular Ministry of Agriculture surveys. We will produce a comprehensive tick distribution report and map, providing a clear picture of high-risk areas. Additionally, we will document scientific evidence of amitraz resistance, enabling evidence-based policy decisions.

By training 560 dip tank committees and strengthening the capacity of animal health workers, we will empower communities to take ownership of TBD control. These efforts will translate into healthier livestock, improved food security, and enhanced livelihoods for farmers across Eswatini.

Collaboration

The challenges posed by ticks and TBDs are complex, but they are not insurmountable. Success will require the collective effort of all stakeholders—government, farmers, veterinary professionals, development partners, and communities. I call upon each of you to play an active role in delivering on the project’s objectives.

To the Ministry of Agriculture, your leadership and commitment to updating statistics through surveys will be critical. To farmers and dip tank committees, your cooperation in surveys and adoption of best practices will drive change at the grassroots level. To veterinary officers and animal health workers, your expertise and dedication will ensure the success of our surveillance and training efforts. And to our development partners, your continued support will help sustain this transformative initiative.

The FAO stands ready to support this project through technical expertise, including guiding international consultants to design surveys, analyze results, and produce actionable reports. Together, we can build a future where ticks and TBDs no longer threaten the health of our livestock, the livelihoods of our farmers, or the well-being of our communities. 

As we embark on this journey, let us draw inspiration from our past success in eliminating East Coast Fever and channel that same determination into this project. By mapping tick distribution, addressing acaricide resistance, and strengthening our surveillance and capacity-building systems, we are laying the foundation for a healthier, more prosperous Eswatini.

I invite you all to join hands in this vital endeavor. Let us work together to reduce the burden of ticks and TBDs, enhance food security, and contribute to a sustainable future for our nation. Thank you for your commitment, and I look forward to our shared success. 

Siyabonga!