November 2, 2022

New deal to boost Pacific livestock production and animal health system – Reuters

To strengthen the region’s animal health and production systems, the Pacific Community (Land Resources Division (LRD)) has signed a four-year partnership agreement with the Australian Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment (DAWE).

Australian Director Veterinary Officer Dr Mark Schipp said the agreement was the result of close engagement between the newly created Pacific Engagement Program within the Office of the Australian Director Veterinary Officer (OCVO) and the Health team. animal and production of SPC.

“As part of Australia’s focus on strengthening animal health and biosecurity activities in the Pacific region, our Pacific Engagement Program provides targeted funding to help the Pacific Community strengthen the Pacific Heads of Veterinary and Animal Production Services (PHOVAPS) network,” said Dr Schipp. mentioned.

He added that biosecurity and animal health measures will support stronger biosecurity in the region and further help protect Australia from animal biosecurity threats.

Under this agreement, DAWE will support SPC to strengthen the PHOVAPS network and operations, and undertake African Swine Fever (ASF) awareness and preparedness activities in Pacific Island countries and territories.

Key outcomes of the partnership agreement titled “*Building the capacity of the PHOVAPS network” include the development of a governance structure and terms of reference for PHOVAPS, the identification of priority needs and the development of guidelines for joint implementation with PHOVAPS members, and facilitating the implementation of PHOVAPS priorities in collaboration. with ongoing projects implemented by LRD.

“This new partnership will further strengthen SPC’s ongoing efforts to operationalize a One Health approach in the Pacific,” said Karen Mapusua, Director of the Land Resources Division.

“It aligns with the strategic objective of our Pacific Animal Health and Production Framework to strengthen disease surveillance and improve emergency response capacity to address the current state of animal diseases. and prevent the introduction of new diseases into the region.

Media contact(s):

Dr Sripad Sosale, Animal Health and Production Adviser, Land Resources Division, Pacific Community (SPC) | sripads@spc.int

Matilda Simmons, Communications Assistant, Land Resources Division, Pacific Community (SPC) | matildas@spc.int