Addis Ababa: The Ministry of Agriculture and International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) celebrated the World Animal Day for the 14th time in partnership with other stakeholders today.
During the celebration, pertinent stakeholders highlighted the importance of the sectoral approach for ensuring animal welfare in the country.
Speaking at the occasion, on behalf of Agriculture State Minister, Animal Health Veterinary Public Health Lead Executive Officer, Dr. Wubshet Zewde explained the critical role of animals in the daily life and economy of the society.
For him, healthy and well treated animals would contribute to sustainable farming practices and safeguard natural resources for future generations.
‘Animal welfare is not just about compassion and kindness; it is about building a sustainable future for communities. Welfare for animals helps us towards achieving our national goals, food security, public health, economic development.’
He reaffirmed the commitment of Ethiopia to work in partnership w
ith the international organizations, charity groups, and local stakeholders to enhance veterinary service, improve disease control and strengthen animal welfare regulation.
The executive officer further stressed the need for integrating efforts across ministries, regions, local communities, non-governmental organizations and private sectors to ensure animal welfare.
Veterinary Intern at Veterinaires Sans Frontieres-Germany, Dr. Yimesgen Tarekegn on his part highlighted the need for provision of better health services, proper nutrition and vaccinations to improve the health and wellbeing of animals.
According to him, the society in the countryside provides care and gives respect for their animals; but still there is a limitation in terms of improving the overall welfare such as the health of the animals.
As a result, Yimesgen underlined the need to work together to ensure that every animal gets the care, respect and protection it deserves.
Animal welfare is a critical component as animals are not only inh
abitants of the earth; but, they are vital parts of our ecosystem, Ethiopian Veterinary Association President, Dr. Bojia Endebu revealed.
‘Animals are not inhabitants of the earth but vital parts of our ecosystem. They contribute in numerous ways that are integral to maintaining ecological balance.’
He also underlined on the importance of animal welfare to be an integral part of livestock development, human wellbeing, ecosystem welfare and sustainable development.
Brooke Ethiopia-Country Director, Yohannes Kassim on his part stated that the agenda of animal welfare is a collective responsibility to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves.
‘Animal welfare is not a moral obligation; it is an essential component of a just society that prioritizing their welfare means acknowledging the intrinsic value of all living beings and their contribution towards human beings and the entire ecosystem in general,’ he added.
Despite significant progress in animal welfare, Yohannes noted that the challenges rem
ain vast including the rise of inhumane testing practices and lack of adequate care and treatment.
Highlighting the crucial of strong collaboration for addressing pressing issues of animal welfare, he stressed the need for recognition of strengthening animal health systems, building the capacity of animal health practitioners; conduct animal welfare and strong commitments to fill sector specific surveillance gaps.
‘Strong organizational collaboration is crucial for addressing these issues. We must share knowledge, resources, and strategies to promote welfare standards nationwide. Effective policies are essential for safeguarding animal welfare. We need to advocate for stronger legislation that protects animals from brutality and exploitation.
This includes enforcing of the existing laws and ratification of the new animal welfare proclamation which was endorsed by the minister’s council of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia very recently.’
Source: Ethiopian News Agency