Ethiopia Calls On Abu Dhabi Experts To Combat Mysterious Camel Disease

The Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture has sought help from the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority's (ADAFSA) Collaborating Centre for Camel Disease. This request follows recommendations from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO). The goal is to investigate the mysterious camel deaths affecting Ethiopia and other East African nations, including Sudan, Somalia, and Kenya.

In July, a team of technical experts, including specialists from the WOAH Collaborating Centre for Camel Disease, visited Ethiopia. They collaborated with local experts to identify the cause of this unknown disease and develop effective prevention and treatment strategies. This centre is recognised by WOAH for its extensive experience in diagnosing and treating animal diseases.

According to an official letter received by ADAFSA from the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture, Ethiopia has experienced significant camel deaths over the past two decades due to an unidentified disease. This outbreak has caused severe economic and social damage to pastoral communities dependent on camels.

Saeed Al Bahri Salem Al Ameri, Director General of ADAFSA, emphasised the importance of combating animal diseases that impact food security. He stated, "ADAFSA places great importance on combating animal diseases, especially those affecting food security. Our collaboration with WOAH and East African countries in this field is a crucial step in enhancing our joint efforts to maintain animal health and protect livestock."

Al Ameri also highlighted that this collaboration showcases the UAE's prestigious position in biosecurity due to its scientific expertise, infrastructure, and advanced technical equipment. He added that it reflects their commitment to strengthening international efforts to combat animal diseases globally.

The Collaborating Centre for Camel Diseases plays a vital role in scientific research and providing advanced veterinary services worldwide. It actively combats epidemic diseases affecting camels and raises awareness about best practices for camel breeding through training programmes, workshops, and international conferences.

Al Ameri noted that the expertise available at veterinary laboratories and the WOAH Collaborating Centre would be invaluable in identifying this mysterious disease. He affirmed that this mission enhances ADAFSA's leading role in combating animal diseases internationally.

This initiative aims to mitigate the effects of this mysterious disease on camels in Ethiopia and other affected regions. By leveraging international expertise, they hope to control the outbreak and prevent further economic losses for pastoral communities reliant on camels.

With inputs from WAM