USAID empowers farmers in fight against zoonotic diseases
DODOMA: FARMERS who attended the Nane Nane exhibition that ended here last week were empowered with crucial information to combat zoonotic diseases, thanks to the “Holela-Holela Itakukosti” campaign.
Supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through the Breakthrough ACTION project and in collaboration with Tanzanian government ministries, this initiative is focused on enhancing disease prevention strategies among livestock keepers.
The campaign’s dedicated booth in the Prime Minister’s Office One Health Section at the exhibition played a key role in engaging farmers. It provided valuable insights into preventing diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans, such as rabies, anthrax and brucellosis.
These diseases pose significant risks through direct animal contact, consumption of contaminated food and exposure to polluted environments.
Assistant Director for Veterinary Public Health at the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Dr Stanford Ndibalema, said as the first line of defence in this battle, livestock keepers were crucial in controlling the spread of zoonotic diseases.
He emphasised the importance of farmers in disease prevention: “Farmers and livestock keepers are essential in maintaining animal health, which directly impacts human health.
By adopting good hygiene practices promoted by the “Holela Holela Itakukosti” campaign —such as maintaining clean environments, regularly cleaning and disinfecting animal housing and equipment, vaccinating livestock against common zoonotic diseases and implementing biosecurity measures—they help create healthy ecosystems that support human well-being.
“Farmers who embrace these practices not only safeguard their animals but also enhance the overall health of their communities. Improved animal health translates to better productivity and economic benefits,” Dr Ndibalema noted.
He further added, “Through the “Holela-Holela Itakukosti” campaign, they are focused to prevent zoonotic diseases proactively, thereby reducing dependence on antibiotics that contribute to antimicrobial resistance. By implementing these preventive measures, farmers can secure their livelihoods and enhance community health.”
USAID’s support for the Holela-Holela campaign highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing zoonotic.
