More about Developing a Draft National Emergency Communication Strategy for Veterinary Services in Tanzania
Developing a Draft National Emergency Communication Strategy for Veterinary Services in Tanzania
By Chiku Makwai – ARUSHA
The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), in collaboration with the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, has launched the process of developing a Draft National Emergency Communication Strategy for Veterinary Services in Tanzania, a step aimed at strengthening the country's capacity to prevent, control, and respond to livestock disease outbreaks.
The workshop to prepare the draft strategy was officially opened today, June 1, 2026, at Masailand Hall in Arusha by the Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Benezeth Lutege, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, Ms. Agness K. Meena.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Dr. Lutege emphasized that effective communication is a critical tool in managing and responding to livestock disease outbreaks, as it enables the timely dissemination of accurate information to all relevant stakeholders.
He noted that the Government continues to strengthen early warning and rapid response systems to ensure that livestock diseases are detected and controlled at an early stage before causing significant impacts on livestock production, trade, and public health.
“This strategy will establish the foundation for a unified national emergency communication system that will guide information dissemination, stakeholder engagement, and communication management during livestock disease outbreak events,” said Dr. Lutege.
He further highlighted that various livestock diseases, including Rift Valley Fever, require strong communication coordination to ensure that citizens and stakeholders receive accurate information that enables them to take appropriate and timely action.
The workshop has brought together experts in livestock, animal health, communication, and other stakeholders from government institutions and international organizations to discuss best practices in risk communication, emergency information management, and strategies for strengthening outbreak response.
Participants are also expected to discuss the use of modern technologies in information dissemination, as well as ways to enhance collaboration between the animal health and human health sectors under the One Health approach.
Through this workshop, Tanzania aims to develop a robust emergency communication strategy that will strengthen early warning systems, improve rapid response during emergencies, safeguard livestock welfare, and contribute to the country's economic development.
