At the recommendation of the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), delegates from the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority’s (ADAFSA) Collaborating Centre for Camel Diseases have assisted the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture in the investigation of the death of camels in various East African countries, in Ethiopia and Kenya, Somalia and Sudan.
A technical delegation, including specialists from the Collaborating Centre for Camel Disease, began their visit to Ethiopia in July 2024. The team worked with their Ethiopian counterparts to identify the causative agent of this mysterious disease, with an aim of developing effective prevention and treatment methods.
The Reference Collaborating Centre for Camel Diseases, which is accredited by the OIE, has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating animal diseases. The centre provides scientific research and the provision of advanced veterinary services in the field of camel health worldwide. It also plays an active role in combating epidemic diseases affecting camels and helps raise awareness about best practices for camel breeding and care through training programmes, workshops, and international conferences.
According to the official letter received by ADAFSA from the Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture, over the past two decades, Ethiopia has witnessed extensive camel deaths for unknown reasons. This is a result of the outbreak of a mysterious disease that has caused severe economic and social damage to pastoral communities that rely on camels in their daily lives.
His Excellency Saeed Al Bahri Salem Al Ameri, Director General of ADAFSA, said: "ADAFSA places great importance on combating animal diseases, especially those affecting food security. Our collaboration with OIE and East African countries in this field is a crucial step in enhancing our joint efforts to maintain animal health and protect livestock."
"This collaboration underscores the prestigious position of the UAE in the field of biosecurity, thanks to its scientific expertise, infrastructure, and advanced technical equipment. It also reflects our commitment to strengthening international efforts to combat animal diseases and protect animal health globally, particularly those affecting food security."
His Excellency emphasised that the scientific expertise available at veterinary laboratories and the Collaborating Centre for Camel Diseases adds value in identifying the disease, controlling it, and mitigating its effects. He affirmed that this mission enhances the leading role of the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority in combating animal diseases internationally.
