Côte d'Ivoire's FADACI Promotes Animal Welfare Through Vaccination and Sensitization Campaign

The Fédération des acteurs du domaine des animaux de compagnie de Côte d'Ivoire (FADACI) recently organized a free anti-rabies vaccination campaign and animal welfare sensitization in Abidjan. The event took place on November 8, 2026, at the Saint-Joseph Artisan de la Riviera Bonoumin parish. FADACI's president, Adja Sidjé Annabelle Denise, led the initiative, which aimed to promote animal protection and educate pet owners about their responsibilities. The campaign was supported by the parish's curé, père Acaffou Adja Serge-Daniel.

The campaign included a blessing ceremony for pets, which was attended by certified canine educators from FADACI. These educators ensured the animals' safety and accompanied their owners throughout the event to prevent incidents and promote harmonious coexistence between pets and their environment. According to Mme Adja Sidjé, the blessing of animals is not a form of baptism or humanization but rather a gesture of recognition towards God for his creation.

Mme Adja Sidjé emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership, urging owners to consider their pets' dietary, health, and behavioral needs, as well as the financial resources required to care for them throughout their lives. She also encouraged adoption and stressed the need for owners to be aware of their responsibilities towards their pets. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about animal welfare and promote a culture of responsibility among pet owners.

The blessing of animals has its roots in the Holy Scriptures, specifically in the story of Creation, where God blesses the sea and sky animals (Genesis 1, 22). Père Acaffou Adja Serge-Daniel explained that the divine alliance with all living beings after the flood and the psalms that associate animals with God's praise also support the idea of blessing animals. He emphasized that this blessing is a sacramental, a prayer of thanksgiving and protection, rather than a sacrament.

The event was well-received by pet owners, who appreciated the opportunity to have their pets vaccinated and blessed. The campaign also provided a platform for FADACI to educate owners about animal welfare and promote responsible pet ownership. By working together with the parish and certified canine educators, FADACI aimed to create a safer and more harmonious environment for both humans and animals.

The collaboration between FADACI and the Saint-Joseph Artisan de la Riviera Bonoumin parish highlights the importance of community involvement in promoting animal welfare. By engaging with pet owners and providing education on responsible pet ownership, FADACI and its partners can make a positive impact on animal welfare in Côte d'Ivoire. The campaign also underscores the need for continued efforts to promote animal protection and welfare.

The success of the campaign demonstrates the potential for partnerships between organizations and communities to drive positive change in animal welfare. As Côte d'Ivoire continues to develop and grow, initiatives like the FADACI campaign will be crucial in promoting a culture of responsibility and compassion towards animals. By working together, stakeholders can create a better future for animals and humans alike.

Key points

• FADACI's campaign promotes responsible pet ownership and animal welfare through education and vaccination.
• The blessing of animals has its roots in the Holy Scriptures and is a sacramental, not a sacrament.
• The campaign aims to create a safer and more harmonious environment for both humans and animals in Côte d'Ivoire.