AU-IBAR, FAO advance efforts to combat animal trypanosomiasis in Africa

KENYA – The African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), with support from the COMBAT project, are hosting a pivotal three-day workshop in Mombasa, Kenya. 

The workshop, which runs from March 24 to 26, aims to mainstream the Progressive Control Pathway (PCP) for Animal African Trypanosomosis (AAT) into a unified cross-border approach, reinforcing collaborative efforts in disease control.

Animal African Trypanosomosis, commonly referred to as nagana, is a parasitic disease transmitted by tsetse flies that severely impacts livestock health, productivity, and food security in Africa. 

Although human cases of sleeping sickness have significantly declined, with fewer than 2,000 cases reported annually, the threat of animal trypanosomosis remains severe across Africa,  with the highest economic burden falling on cattle.

Estimated annual losses due to AAT range between US$3 billion and US$5 billion, making its control a priority for the continent’s agricultural and economic development.

This workshop, supported by the European Commission’s Horizon 2020-funded COMBAT project, brings together 65 participants from 20 African Member States. 

The participants include Chief Veterinary Officers, Animal Trypanosomiasis focal points, and representatives from Regional Economic Communities (RECs), FAO, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), CIRAD, the Gates Foundation, and the Research and Development Institute (IRD).

Key objectives of the workshop include presenting the fundamental principles of the PCP framework, analysing the economic impact of AAT, reviewing control guidelines, and mapping out a continental strategy for combating the disease. 

Case studies from enzootic countries have been shared, providing insights into effective control measures. 

In addition, the workshop has featured discussions focused on the role of chemotherapy in managing AAT, with contributions from the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed), which is developing new trypanocidal treatments.

AU-IBAR, as a specialised technical office of the African Union, plays a leading role in advancing animal resources development across the continent. 

Through initiatives like this workshop, AU-IBAR and its partners are committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and policy alignment to tackle AAT.

As the event concludes on March 26, its outcomes are expected to shape future disease control strategies, reinforcing efforts to enhance livestock health, economic stability, and food security in Africa.

The continued engagement of stakeholders and donors remains vital in driving sustainable solutions to combat AAT and support the livelihoods of millions of livestock-dependent communities across the continent.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.