By: Yohannes Fentahun
African leaders, international organizations, and veterinary experts are joining forces to launch a landmark initiative aimed at eradicating Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), a highly contagious disease decimating sheep and goat populations across the continent. The Pan African Programme for PPR Eradication, officially launched yesterday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, sets an ambitious target of eliminating the disease by 2030.
PPR, which poses a significant threat to food security and livelihoods, particularly for women and youth in rural communities, is endemic in most African nations. The disease causes substantial economic losses and hinders sustainable development efforts across the continent.
The African Union Commission (AUC) has designated the eradication of PPR as a top priority, recognizing its devastating impact. The Pan African Programme is a coordinated, continent-wide effort, drawing on the expertise and resources of the African Union’s specialised agencies, such as AU-IBAR and AU-PANVAC, as well as international partners like the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH).
"The launch of this program marks a crucial step in our fight against PPR," said experts from the AUC. "We are committed to mobilizing all necessary resources and partnerships to achieve our goal of an PPR-free Africa by 2030” they added.
The program has a total budget of an estimated $326 million with financial support from the European Union and other partners. A key component of the eradication plan is a robust continental vaccination strategy, which will build on existing national efforts and strengthen collaboration between all stakeholders.
"By working together, we can create a healthier and more prosperous Africa, where livestock populations are not threatened by this devastating disease,” said a representative from COMSA. "This program will not only save animal lives but also uplift the lives of millions."