Senegal Records Gains After Tsetse Fly Control Programme

Senegal has recorded major improvements in livestock production following a long-term campaign to control tsetse flies in the Niayes region.

The programme, implemented by the government with support from the Food and Agriculture Organization and the International Atomic Energy Agency, reduced tsetse fly populations by more than 99 percent and largely eliminated trypanosomosis in the area.

Studies conducted after the intervention showed increases in livestock productivity, household income and milk production, while treatment costs for the disease declined significantly.

The disease-free environment also allowed farmers to introduce higher-yield cattle breeds and expand modern dairy farming.

Since 2017, more than 900 modern dairy farms have been established in the region, contributing to increased milk production and creating new economic opportunities.

Officials say the programme has also improved animal health, supported employment and provided a model for livestock development programmes in other African countries.

Experts, however, stressed the need for continued monitoring and community participation to maintain the gains achieved by the initiative.