Mogadishu, Somalia – A vital livestock vaccination and treatment campaign continues in Somalia, reaching over 8 million animals as of September 2024. Led by Somalia’s Ministry of Livestock, Forestry, and Range, this nationwide effort is supported by the Somalia Food Systems Resilience Project, funded by the World Bank.
The campaign aims to safeguard the health of livestock and boost the agricultural sector, which is essential for the livelihoods of many Somalis. The vaccinations and treatments protect animals from diseases such as contagious bovine pleuropneumonia, sheep and goat pox, and Rift Valley fever.
"This campaign is a significant step forward in improving the health of livestock in Somalia and ensuring the sustainability of the agricultural sector," said Abdullahi Abdirahman, FSRP National Project Coordinator. "We are grateful for the support of the World Bank and the Somalia Food Systems Resilience Project in making this initiative possible."
The campaign has also created employment opportunities for Somalis, with over 500 people hired to administer vaccinations and treatments. "I am proud to be part of this campaign and to contribute to the development of Somalia's livestock sector," said Halima Mohamed, a veterinarian working on the campaign. "I have seen firsthand the positive impact that these vaccinations and treatments have on the health of livestock and the livelihoods of farmers."
The Somalia Food Systems Resilience Project is a five-year, $150 million project that aims to improve food security and nutrition in Somalia. The project supports a range of activities, including Rebuilding Resilient Agricultural Production Capacity and Supporting the sustainable development of Natural Resources for Resilient Agriculture Landscapes.