Empowering Veterinarians: FAO supports the Peste des Petits Ruminants Global Eradication Programme
FAO launches a regional training on participatory disease surveillance and outbreak investigation in Rwanda.
In a significant stride towards reinforcing the global fight against transboundary animal diseases (TADs), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) joins forces with the European Commission is implementing a transformative global project: "Support to the PPR Global Eradication Programme". This collaborative project, in the current capacity development initiative keen to focus on selected Eastern Africa countries, particularly Burundi, Rwanda, South Sudan and Tanzania aims to enhance epidemio-surveillance capacity through participatory disease search and outbreak investigation.
Setting the stage
The early warning of potential disease outbreaks is crucial for the containment of TADs, a menace that resonates through impacts on food security, livelihoods, and global trade. In tandem with the European Commission, FAO, through its PPR GEP secretariat in collaboration with Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD), undertakes a far-reaching training program in Kigali, Rwanda, from 27 November to 1 December 2023. The program targets dedicated field veterinarians from the aforementioned countries.
The project aims to strengthen the capacity of regions and countries in conducting surveillance, epidemiological studies, and risk assessments for high-impact small ruminant diseases.
The overarching objectives include streamlining access to animal health information and elevating regional risk assessments. A cornerstone of this initiative is the emphasis on participatory disease search, integrating the dynamic elements of participatory epidemiology and outbreak investigation.
Charting a Path for Transformation
Theoutcomes envisaged from this training encompass fortified field surveillance and disease investigation capabilities. Participants, numbering 16 field veterinarians from the above-mentioned countries will be equipped to conduct participatory disease searches routinely in their countries. Selected from the epidemiology and disease control units in each country, these participants will play a pivotal role in championing the objectives of the PPR National Strategic Plan (NSP).
This initiative underscores FAO's commitment to fostering collaboration and building capacities for effective disease surveillance and control. Aligned with global efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goals, FAO stands at the forefront of empowering communities against the threats posed by transboundary animal diseases such as PPR.
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PESTE DES PETITS RUMINANTS
Contact:
Marie Claire Muneza
Head of Communication