Tunisia has launched national events to mark World Rabies Day, which aims to eliminate the disease through vaccination and awareness campaigns. The events were launched by Heikal Hachlaf, head of the Ministry of Agriculture's office, on September 28, 2026, in the governorate of Manouba. The events are part of a national program led by the veterinary services of the Ministry of Agriculture to promote vaccination and awareness about rabies.
The launch event was attended by several officials, including Mahmoud Chouieb, governor of Manouba, and Hajar Al-Kilani, representative of the World Organisation for Animal Health in North Africa. The events included a free vaccination campaign for dogs and cats, as well as educational workshops and awareness campaigns targeting students and citizens. The goal is to promote preventive behaviors and safe interactions with animals.
The national program includes over 160 free vaccination points and awareness campaigns across the country, as well as educational programs in over 220 primary schools. The program aims to promote a culture of prevention and raise awareness among young people about the risks of rabies and how to protect themselves.
The events reflect the importance of collaborative work between veterinary services, private veterinarians, local authorities, civil society, and citizens to promote prevention and protect society within the framework of the "One Health" approach. The approach emphasizes the close integration of human, animal, and environmental health.
The events also included the participation of several stakeholders, including veterinarians, local authorities, and civil society organizations. The goal is to promote a comprehensive approach to rabies elimination, including vaccination, awareness, and community engagement.
World Rabies Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about the disease and promote efforts to eliminate it. According to the World Health Organization, rabies is a deadly disease that affects millions of people and animals worldwide, and its elimination requires a coordinated effort from governments, veterinarians, and communities.
The Tunisian government has reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating rabies through vaccination and awareness campaigns. The national program aims to make Tunisia a rabies-free country and promote a culture of prevention and safe interactions with animals.
Key points
- Tunisia launches national events to mark World Rabies Day, aiming to eliminate the disease through vaccination and awareness campaigns.
- The events are part of a national program led by the veterinary services of the Ministry of Agriculture to promote vaccination and awareness about rabies.
- The program includes over 160 free vaccination points and awareness campaigns across the country, as well as educational programs in over 220 primary schools.
