Minister Al-Saqatri emphasizes animal health for global biosecurity in Rome

Yemeni Minister of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Fisheries, Salem Abdullah Al-Saqatri, emphasized the critical importance of investing in animal health and agrifood systems during a joint event organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Pandemic Fund in Rome.

Speaking at the event titled ‘Building Strong Animal Health Systems and Sustainable Solutions to Prevent Future Pandemics’, Al-Saqatri noted that in conflict-affected environments, animal health serves as a primary defense for regional and international biosecurity and food security. He highlighted how the ongoing crisis in Yemen since 2015 has created epidemiological vulnerabilities, exposing neighboring countries and the international community to transboundary animal diseases and antimicrobial resistance.

Al-Saqatri advocated for the ‘One Health’ approach, which links animal, plant, soil, and human health to ensure national security and global health. He noted the success of a tripartite ministerial coalition in Yemen—comprising the ministries of agriculture, public health, and water and environment—supported by the Pandemic Fund and implemented by the FAO in coordination with WHO and UNICEF. Key achievements include the reactivation of early warning networks, upgrading veterinary quarantine infrastructure, and establishing diagnostic laboratories.