ECOWAS animal health networks meet in Lomé to combat transboundary diseases

The 11th annual meeting of animal health networks convened in Lomé, Togo, from October 6 to 8, 2026, to address the surveillance and control of transboundary animal diseases within the ECOWAS region.

Participants, including heads of veterinary services and representatives from the West African Health Organisation (WAHO) and the Regional Animal Health Centre (RAHC), aim to strengthen regional governance and coordination. The meeting focuses on adopting strategic tools for early detection and prevention to protect livestock, food security, and local livelihoods.

A key agenda item includes the adoption of an electronic platform for the Regional Animal Health Information System (RAHIS), designed to improve the collection, analysis, and sharing of animal health data for rapid decision-making. Additionally, the meeting will present findings from a comparative study regarding national regulations on animal health and livestock trade between Sahelian and coastal countries.