Japanese, SUA begin livestock disease control project
MOROGORO: JAPANESE experts and Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) researchers have embarked on a crucial mission to tackle neglected zoonotic diseases.
The diseases, such as brucellosis and zoonotic tuberculosis, are transmitted from animals to humans and often overshadowed by more prominent health concerns.
Thus, a group of professors from Japan has arrived in the country to begin a new project “Co-Designing Neglected Zoonosis Intervention through One-Health, Education and PublicPrivate Partnership.”
“The five-year project will run from August, aiming to tackle neglected zoonotic diseases like Brucellosis and zoonotic tuberculosis. “
The diseases are common in Tanzania’s livestock sector, which is important for the country’s economy but faces serious challenges in controlling these illnesses,” the statement issued by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) said.
The project will use a one-health approach, combining education and partnerships between the public and private sectors to develop effective solutions in the Morogoro Region.
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This project, according to JICA, is being done with SUA, marking an important step in the long-standing cooperation between Japan and Tanzania in agriculture and health sectors.
The JICA and SUA have been working together since the mid-1990s. Over time, this partnership has grown stronger, with a focus on helping rural areas develop sustainably.
JICA is Japanese agency that has been supporting Tanzania’s growth in many sectors since 1962.
The project is part of the SATREPS programme, a joint research effort between Japan and developing countries.
And, brings together experts from Japanese universities and research institutions which are Rakuno Gakuxen, Yamaguchi University, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Tokyo University, NEC Solution Innovators and Tanikawa Kikaku with Tanzanian experts from institutions like SUA, the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) and Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS).
The project’s findings will be shared widely in Morogoro to benefit local communities and will also focus on training veterinary, health and education officers at regional and district levels to help control these diseases.
As the project progresses, it is expected to have a lasting positive impact on how Tanzania manages these diseases, contributing to a healthier and stronger agricultural sector.
