Universitas Airlangga launches mobile livestock health service in Manokwari

The Tim Ekspedisi Patriot (TEP) 13 from Universitas Airlangga (Unair) has initiated a mobile livestock health program, known as Posyandu Ternak Keliling, in the Prafi District of Manokwari, West Papua. The initiative aims to address limited access to routine veterinary services, which often leads to delayed disease detection and reduced livestock productivity.

So far, the program has examined 1,000 cattle, with approximately 150 to 250 animals identified as requiring follow-up care. Health assessments revealed that a significant number of the cattle were suffering from worms and parasitic infections. In addition to medical examinations, the program provides farmers with assistance regarding livestock reproduction, medication, and feeding practices.

Local farmers have expressed appreciation for the service, noting that it provides free medical check-ups and deworming medication, thereby reducing their operational costs. The initiative aligns with national directives to accelerate development in Papua and strengthen food self-sufficiency at the provincial and district levels.