Dr. Charles Bebay, makes a presentation during the training @FAO Rina Wangila

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture Livestock and Fisheries (MoALF), veterinary experts and stakeholders convened in Naivasha from 16 to 18 April for a Consultative Meeting on In-Service Applied Veterinary Epidemiology Training (ISAVET). The consultation addressed the pressing need for a robust public health workforce, particularly in veterinary epidemiology. With the implementation of International Health Regulations (IHR), the availability of well-trained epidemiologists is paramount to effectively handle health crises. The gathering also aimed to chart a sustainable roadmap for the nation's veterinary workforce development, emphasizing the critical role of epidemiologists in managing public health emergencies and threats.

Objectives and Expected Outputs

Under the Frontline ISAVET, jointly funded by the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) initiative and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), field veterinarians and paraprofessionals are equipped with skills for disease detection, reporting, and response to various health threats, including zoonoses and transboundary diseases.

The Consultative Meeting included sharing updates on ISAVET program institutionalization and implementation, deliberating on monitoring and evaluation outcomes, and outlining the country's vision for sustainable ISAVET implementation. Key outputs sought to institutionalize the ISAVET program, evaluate its effectiveness, and articulate a clear vision for its sustainable implementation.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from the National ISAVET Program Steering Commitee (NIPSC), ISAVET Technical Working Group (ITWG), Directorate of Veterinary Services, Ministry of Health, Academia, county veterinary services, and various partner organizations.

Next Steps

Recommendations stemming from the meeting highlighted the importance of developing an ISAVET implementation strategy, adopting a blended approach to training delivery, strengthening institutional structures, and integrating ISAVET activities into national and county-level plans.

Moving forward, FAO, in collaboration with the Directorate of Veterinary Services and the ISAVET Technical Working Group, will identify suitable local academic institutions to deliver the training program and advise on the engagement framework. By fostering collaboration and outlining a roadmap for sustainability, stakeholders have reaffirmed their commitment to building a skilled workforce capable of addressing emerging health challenges.

For further information, please contact:

Joseph Othieno

National Communications Specialist

FAO Kenya

Email: [email protected]

Yanira Santana

Emergency Reporting and Outreach

FAO ECTAD Africa

Email : [email protected]