Participants in a group phot after their graduation

Thirty-one frontline veterinary professionals graduate from specialized training to improve detection and response to animal diseases in Ghana

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Veterinary Service Directorate of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture of Ghana, has concluded the graduation ceremony of the second cohort of the frontline In-Service Applied Veterinary Epidemiology Training programme. The Training is part of ongoing efforts to reinforce Ghana’s veterinary workforce and improve responses to transboundary animal diseases, both zoonotic and non-zoonotic animal diseases.

The training equips frontline veterinary staff with essential competencies in disease surveillance, outbreak investigations and reporting. Thirty-one participants from across the country completed both the theoretical and practical components of the programme, including field projects on priority animal health issues in their respective localities.

“The graduation of this 2^nd cohort reflects Ghana’s commitment to strengthening its veterinary services and advancing health security at the national and regional levels,” said Ahmed Garba, speaking on behalf of FAO Representative in Ghana, Priya Gujadhur. “FAO remains committed to supporting Member Nations in developing a skilled and resilient animal health workforce.”

The training included a three-week classroom-based session held in September 2024 in Ejisu, Ashanti Region, followed by fieldwork and mentorship activities. Trainees presented their final project results to a panel of assessors during the graduation, demonstrating the practical application of the knowledge gained.

 The 31 trainees consisted of personnel from the Veterinary Services Directorate, Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission and the Fishery Commission. Five out of the 31 trainees were financially supported by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs of the United Kingdom.

Dr Joseph Abuh, the Representative of the CVO Dr. Emmanuel Allege-Cudjoe of the Veterinary Services Directorate, stated: “This programme has strengthened the technical capacity of our frontline personnel, which is vital to the early detection and effective management of animal disease outbreaks. We welcome FAO’s continued support and partnership in advancing veterinary public health in Ghana.”

 Ongoing support to animal health systems

FAO launched the training in Ghana in November 2021, with the first cohort comprising 18 veterinary professionals. To date, a total of 49 frontline officers have been trained through the programme, contributing to national efforts to prevent, detect and respond to transboundary animal diseases and other health threats at the human-animal-environment interface.

 The training is part of FAO’s broader support to Ghana in promoting the One Health approach, enhancing veterinary public health systems, and supporting sustainable livestock development.

FAO acknowledges the generous contribution of the United States Agency for International Development and the collaboration of national and international partners in the implementation of this programme