The conference was held in Accra, Ghana, from 26th to 28th September 2019.
The Conference Overview
The 10th edition of the RAHN conference was a significant event in the veterinary services sector in West Africa. The conference brought together experts and stakeholders from across the region to discuss the challenges faced by veterinary services in the area of human and financial resources.
The Current State of the Workforce
The current state of the veterinary workforce in the region is characterized by a shortage of veterinarians and veterinary paraprofessionals. This shortage has significant implications for animal welfare and public health. The lack of sufficient veterinarians and paraprofessionals can lead to inadequate care for animals, delayed diagnosis, and reduced treatment options. Key statistics:
- – 75% of veterinary clinics in the region report difficulty in finding qualified veterinarians. – 60% of veterinary clinics report difficulty in finding qualified veterinary paraprofessionals. – The region has a shortage of over 100 veterinarians and paraprofessionals. ## The Impact on Animal Welfare and Public Health
- – Increased euthanasia rates due to lack of veterinary care. – Reduced access to preventative care, such as vaccinations and parasite control. – Increased risk of zoonotic diseases, such as rabies and salmonella. Examples of the impact on public health:
- – Increased risk of zoonotic diseases, such as rabies and salmonella. – Increased risk of foodborne illnesses, such as E. coli and Salmonella. – Increased risk of vector-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease and West Nile virus.
The Impact on Animal Welfare and Public Health
The shortage of veterinarians and paraprofessionals has a direct impact on animal welfare and public health. Animals may not receive the necessary care, leading to suffering and increased mortality rates. Additionally, the shortage can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, which can have serious consequences for human health. Examples of the impact on animal welfare:
