Addis Ababa: Ethiopia is set to host the 26th World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Regional Conference for Africa from February 4th to 7th, 2025. This significant gathering will bring together leading veterinary experts from across the continent to address critical issues of animal health and food security.
The conference, held under the theme “Animal Health for Food Security and Public Health in Africa,” will see the participation of Chief Veterinary Officers and delegates from all 54 African Union member states.
“This conference provides a crucial platform for African nations to collaborate and share best practices in combating animal diseases,” stated Agriculture State Minister Fikru Regassa. “By fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange, we can work towards creating a disease-free environment that supports sustainable livestock production and enhances food security for our growing populations.”
The summit will delve into a range of critical issues, including the prevention and control of major animal diseases, strategies to create disease-free zones across the continent, and the critical link between animal health and human well-being.
Recognizing the interconnectedness of animal and human health, the conference will explore innovative solutions to address malnutrition and stunting in children, with a particular focus on the role of livestock in improving nutritional outcomes.
Furthermore, the event will facilitate regional cooperation in animal health management, enabling countries to work together to enhance market access for livestock products and strengthen their collective response to disease outbreaks.
Ethiopia, as the host nation, will leverage this platform to showcase its own advancements in animal health, including its successful disease control programs and innovative strategies for improving livestock productivity.
The 25th WOAH Regional Conference for Africa was held in Gaborone, Botswana, in February 2023. This year’s conference in Addis Ababa is expected to be a landmark event, shaping the future of animal health and food security across the African continent.
