The Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries, and Animal Industries (MINEPIA) in Cameroon recently supervised a workshop that resulted in the validation of a National Strategic Plan for the eradication of Small Ruminant Pests, also known as PPR. This three-day event, which took place from September 29 to October 1, 2026, in Mbankomo, was part of the Pan-African Programme for the Eradication of PPR and the Control of other Priority Small Ruminant Diseases. The plan aims to control and eventually eradicate PPR by 2030.
The global initiative to eradicate PPR is led by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WHO) and the UN Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO). This agenda goes beyond animal health, contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The PPR plague has been prevalent in Cameroon since 1976, with over 40 reported cases. The Ministry, through this strategic plan, seeks to align with the National Development Strategy 2020-2030 and the Integrated Agro-Pastoral and Fisheries Import-Substitution Plan.
The Technical Adviser at MINEPIA, Dr. Mimbang Guy Irene, speaking on behalf of the Minister, Dr. Taiga, highlighted that the initiative involves various technical and financial partners, including the African Union's Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources and the European Union. These partnerships aim to support the control and eradication of PPR and other small ruminant diseases. The strategic plan is a comprehensive approach that involves all stakeholders in the small ruminant value chain.
The eradication of PPR is a significant step towards improving animal health and enhancing the livestock industry in Cameroon. Small ruminants, such as goats and sheep, play a crucial role in the livelihoods of many rural communities. The disease has been a major constraint to the productivity and trade of these animals. By controlling and eradicating PPR, Cameroon aims to improve food security, reduce poverty, and enhance the overall well-being of its citizens.
The validation of the National Strategic Plan for PPR eradication demonstrates Cameroon's commitment to addressing animal health challenges. The plan outlines specific strategies and actions for the control and eradication of the disease. These include enhanced surveillance, vaccination programs, and improved animal health services. The Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries, and Animal Industries will lead the implementation of the plan, with support from national and international partners.
The implementation of the strategic plan will require significant resources and collaboration among various stakeholders. The Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries, and Animal Industries will work closely with farmers, veterinarians, and other animal health professionals to ensure the success of the program. The plan's success will be measured by the reduction in PPR cases and the improvement in the overall health and productivity of small ruminants in Cameroon.
Cameroon has taken a significant step towards achieving the global goal of eradicating PPR by 2030. The validation of the National Strategic Plan is a critical milestone in this effort. With the support of international partners and a coordinated approach, Cameroon is poised to make significant progress in controlling and eventually eradicating PPR.
Key points
- The National Strategic Plan for PPR eradication aligns with Cameroon's National Development Strategy 2020-2030 and the Integrated Agro-Pastoral and Fisheries Import-Substitution Plan.
- The global initiative to eradicate PPR is led by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WHO) and the UN Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), with a goal to eradicate the plague by 2030.
- The PPR plague has been prevalent in Cameroon since 1976, with over 40 reported cases.
