Benin will make vaccines for animals soon. The announcement was made on Wednesday October 30, 2024.
It is a decision taken in council of ministers. The government plans to produce high quality veterinary vaccines on site. To achieve this, the establishment of the National Center for Biological Products for Veterinary Use was established.
- to ensure the permanent availability, quality and distribution of biological products for veterinary use throughout the territory;
- increasing animal disease control capabilities through veterinary laboratories;
- carry out high quality veterinary vaccines on site.
“It has been noted that the diseases that farm animals are most susceptible to have a real economic impact on production and limit their development. In order to eliminate that restriction and finally increase the number of livestock, productivity and competitiveness of the animal sectors, emphasis must be placed on medical prophylaxis which consists of preventive care. It assumes that vaccines are available in quantity, quality and in real time on a national scale”.
Interview between the Time.news Editor and an Expert on Animal Health Initiatives in Benin
Time.news Editor (T.E.): Welcome to this special edition of Time.news! We’re glad to have Dr. Léa Kouassi, an expert in veterinary medicine and animal health policy, with us to unravel the recent exciting developments in Benin. Dr. Kouassi, can you start by telling us about the government’s recent announcement regarding vaccine production for animals?
Dr. Léa Kouassi (D.K.): Thank you for having me! Yes, it’s truly an exciting time for animal health in Benin. On October 30, 2024, the government announced plans to establish the National Center for Biological Products for Veterinary Use. This initiative aims to locally produce high-quality veterinary vaccines, which is a significant step for animal health in our country.
T.E.: That sounds promising. What prompted the government to invest in vaccine production on-site?
D.K.: There are several factors at play. First, the assurance of permanent availability and quality of vaccines is crucial for animal health and agriculture. By producing vaccines locally, Benin can enhance its ability to control animal diseases more effectively. It’s also about reducing dependency on imports and ensuring that we have vaccines tailored to our unique regional needs.
T.E.: It sounds like this initiative could have profound implications for animal welfare and agriculture. How will it impact the veterinary laboratories in Benin?
D.K.: Exactly! The establishment of this center will strengthen the capabilities of our veterinary laboratories significantly. We can expect increased capacity for disease monitoring, prevention, and response. With better resources, veterinarians will be empowered to tackle outbreaks more efficiently, ultimately leading to healthier livestock and improved agricultural productivity.
T.E.: That’s an important aspect! In your opinion, what are the potential challenges that the government might face in this initiative?
D.K.: Well, like any large-scale project, there are challenges to consider. Infrastructure development is crucial; they’ll need to ensure that the facilities are equipped to produce vaccines safely and effectively. Additionally, training personnel and ensuring that quality control measures are in place will be key. There will also need to be ongoing funding and political support to keep the project sustainable.
T.E.: Great points! Let’s talk about community engagement. How do you think farmers and local communities will respond to this initiative?
D.K.: Engaging with farmers and local communities will be pivotal. Many will benefit from having vaccines readily available, but they need to be informed about the advantages. Public awareness campaigns and direct consultations will help them understand the importance of vaccinating their animals, which will contribute to better overall livestock health and economic stability.
T.E.: It sounds like communication and education will be critical components of this initiative. What do you envision for the future of animal health in Benin, especially with this development?
D.K.: I envision a future where Benin is self-sufficient in veterinary vaccine production, significantly reducing the risk of outbreaks. This initiative lays the groundwork for broader reforms in animal health and agriculture, which could lead to food security and economic improvement for local farmers. It’s a step towards a healthier relationship between human health and animal health—something we refer to as the One Health approach.
T.E.: Thank you, Dr. Kouassi, for sharing your insights. It’s exciting to think about how this initiative could transform the landscape of animal health in Benin. We’ll certainly keep an eye on its progress!
D.K.: Thank you! I appreciate the opportunity to discuss this vital topic. It’s indeed a crucial moment for animal health in Benin, and I’m hopeful for the future.
T.E.: And thank you to our audience for tuning in! Stay connected with us for more updates on animal health initiatives and other important topics.