The 11th edition of the World One Health Day was officially launched in Cotonou, Benin, on November 3, 2026. The event brought together government authorities, health professionals, local officials, technical and financial partners, and civil society. The initiative aims to strengthen prevention mechanisms against health and environmental threats, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and ecosystem health.
The theme of this year's edition, "Uniting sectors for the health of people, animals, and ecosystems," seeks to highlight national progress and consolidate multisectoral cooperation. Prefect of Littoral, Gilbert Déou, emphasized the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health, stressing that no sector can act in isolation. This perspective was shared by various stakeholders, who called for integrated governance to address pressing health and environmental challenges.
Minister of Environment and Transportation, Georges Alé, warned about the impacts of pollution, land degradation, and climate change, advocating for a unified approach. Adin Yéton Bloukounon Goubalan, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries, emphasized the importance of integrating plant health and highlighted vaccination campaigns against rabies conducted since 2019.
Minister of Health, Professor Benjamin Hounkpatin, underscored the links between infectious diseases and ecological pressures. He reiterated the government's commitment to a clear objective: achieving zero human deaths due to rabies in Benin by 2030. The minister also urged populations to vaccinate their domestic animals, emphasizing the crucial role of animal health in maintaining human well-being.
The One Health approach recognizes that human health is inextricably linked to the health of animals and ecosystems. By adopting a multisectoral approach, Benin aims to address health challenges more effectively. The country's efforts to integrate human, animal, and environmental health sectors demonstrate a growing awareness of the interconnectedness of these areas.
The 11th edition of One Health Day in Benin highlights the country's progress in promoting a unified approach to health. By engaging various stakeholders, the initiative seeks to foster collaboration and coordination across sectors. This, in turn, is expected to enhance the country's ability to prevent and respond to health threats, ultimately improving the well-being of both humans and animals.
As Benin continues to implement its One Health strategy, the government remains committed to achieving its goals, including the elimination of rabies. With a strong focus on multisectoral cooperation and community engagement, the country is poised to make significant strides in promoting a healthier and more sustainable future for its citizens.
Key points
- Benin launches 11th edition of One Health initiative to address interconnected human, animal, and environmental health
- Initiative aims to strengthen prevention mechanisms against health and environmental threats
- Goal is to achieve zero human deaths due to rabies in Benin by 2030
