A One Health – controlling zoonotic diseases and AMR in the milk value chain in Ethiopia, Malawi and Tanzania project kick off meeting has been held from January 28-29, 2025 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The project is implemented by the Norwegian Veterinary Institute (NVI) under an agreement with Norwegian Agency for Development and Cooperation (Norad).
Livestock systems play a significant role in rural livelihoods and the economies of developing countries. The global cost of livestock disease is estimated in billions of dollars, and interventions to improve animal health will benefit both human health and food sustainability.
Firstly, by reducing zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance and emerging diseases. Secondly, by improving the efficiency of livestock production, reducing the negative environmental impacts and contributing to economic gains at multiple levels. Zoonotic diseases occur at the animal – human interface. Functional health systems must include a bridge of collaboration at least between human- and veterinary authorities if they shall efficiently target zoonotic disease for the good of public health.
Project goals
The overall aim of this project is to use a One Health approach to contribute to sustainable production of safe milk for food security, improved nutrition, increased animal and human health by empowering local stakeholders and fostering economic viability
Project outcomes
The project is built around four strategic outcomes: One Health platforms, Surveillance
(epidemiological capacity), Laboratory diagnostics and Veterinary services
- Operational One Health Platforms for coordinated control of zoonoses and AMR in the milk value chain
- Improved Capacity for surveillance of AMR, antimicrobial use and infectious diseases in the milk value chain
- Strengthened Capacity building to detect zoonotic diseases through laboratory investigations
- Improved Veterinary services surrounding primary producers of the milk value chain
