USAID, Tanzania join forces in fight against rabies
Mwanza: AS the international community commemorates the World Rabies Day, (October 1, 2024), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through its Breakthrough ACTION project, and the Government of Tanzania, represented by the Prime Minister’s Office – One Health Section, the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Ministry of Health, and the President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), are leading a concerted effort to protect vulnerable communities from the deadly threat of rabies.
Their comprehensive initiatives focus on education, vaccination programs, and community engagement, aiming to break the cycle of rabies transmission and safeguard the health of both humans and animals.
Rabies remains a significant public health challenge in Tanzania, claiming the lives of approximately 59,000 people globally each year, with a substantial number of these cases occurring in Africa. The disease, primarily transmitted through the bites of infected animals, particularly dogs, poses a severe risk to communities that lack access to public health education and veterinary care.
Dr Stanford Ndibalema, Assistant Director of Veterinary Services at the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries emphasized the importance of collaboration in combating rabies. “The partnership between USAID and the Tanzanian government is crucial in our fight against rabies. By working together, we can ensure that communities are not only educated about the risks but also empowered to take proactive steps in protecting themselves and their pets,” she stated.
Dr Ndibalema underscored the critical need for vaccination and community awareness campaigns, highlighting that “every vaccinated dog is a step toward a rabies-free community.”
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In line with World Rabies Day, USAID’s initiatives focus on educating local populations about rabies, the importance of vaccinating pets, and the appropriate actions to take in case of an animal bite. The “Holela Holela Itakukosti” campaign, translating to “recklessness is costly,” encourages responsible dog vaccination and pet ownership, aims to reduce the transmission of rabies within communities. Revina, a mother of three from Mwanza, recounted her experience, “Before the campaign, I had no idea how dangerous rabies could be. Once we learned about the importance of vaccinating our dogs, we took immediate action. Now, I feel much safer allowing my children to play outside.” Local leaders and health workers have been mobilized to conduct outreach programs, ensuring that even the most remote areas have access to vital information and resources.
As USAID and the Government of Tanzania commemorate World Rabies Day, their unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable communities is evident. The collaborative efforts between USAID, the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, and local organizations reflect a unified approach to tackling a preventable disease that has far-reaching consequences. Together, they are not only aiming to eliminate rabies but are also striving to build healthier, safer communities for all Tanzanians.
