FAO Boosts Tanzania's Livestock Health with Rinderpest Vaccine Donation

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has made a significant contribution to Tanzania's animal health sector by donating 3.9 million doses of rinderpest vaccine for goats and sheep. The vaccine was handed over to the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries during a meeting of animal health experts in Arusha, Tanzania's northern city.

According to Stella Kiambi, national coordinator for Antimicrobial Resistance projects at the FAO, the organization will provide support to the Tanzanian government during a nationwide livestock vaccination campaign scheduled to take place later this year. The campaign aims to protect the country's livestock population from various diseases.

Riziki Shemdoe, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, expressed gratitude to the FAO for the donation, stating that it will complement the government's efforts to combat animal diseases. The Tanzanian government has allocated 28 billion Tanzanian shillings (approximately 10 million U.S. dollars) for livestock vaccination in the country.

Tanzania's agricultural sector is significant, with the country boasting a large livestock population. According to the National Sample Census of Agriculture 2019-2020, the country has 33.9 million cattle, 24.5 million goats, 8.5 million sheep, and 87.7 million poultry. The FAO's donation is expected to have a positive impact on the country's livestock industry, enhancing the health and productivity of these animals.

By supporting the Tanzanian government's efforts to combat animal diseases, the FAO is contributing to the country's overall agricultural development and food security. The organization's commitment to improving animal health is crucial in ensuring the well-being of both humans and animals in Tanzania.