GATUNA - Veterinary officers from Rwanda and Uganda met on Monday at Gatuna to consider ways of jointly combating cross-border livestock diseases.

The meeting suggested having common vaccination programs against animal diseases in the region, including sharing information on veterinary activities.

The meeting, which brought together border veterinary officers, immigration and security representatives, was co-chaired by the Director General Rwanda Animal Resources Development Authority (RARDA), Dr. Theogene Rutagwenda, and the Ugandan Assistant Commissioner of Animal Disease Control, Dr. Chris Rutebarika. 

"There is need for proper strategies to combat cross-border animal diseases,” Rutagwenda said.

On his part, Dr. Rutebarika suggested that there should be regular meetings of veterinary officers from both countries to find a lasting solution to cross-border animal diseases.
 "Cross-border animal disease control meetings are very important and should take place at least twice a year,” he argued.  

According to the recommendations of the meeting, there is need to enhance collaboration in laboratory activities between Uganda and Rwanda.  Tanzania would also be invited at the next meeting to take place before the end of this year.

The meeting also resolved to encourage regular meetings on trans-boundary disease control at local levels and border districts. 

Ends