Sao Tome and Principe on alert for sheep and goat disease
A national contingency plan is being developed to prevent the spread of Peste des Petits Ruminants.
Sao Tome and Principe is on health alert due to the spread of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) in other countries, including those in Central and West Africa. The disease, which devastates goat and sheep farming, has not yet appeared in the archipelago, but officials acknowledge risk factors requiring constant vigilance.
Alfredo da Mata, a veterinary doctor and head of the Animal Health Department, stated that PPR significantly affects small ruminant production globally. He confirmed that while Sao Tome and Principe remains free of the disease, the country faces risks that could facilitate its introduction. The African Union is supporting the creation of a National Contingency Plan to outline surveillance, prevention, control, and response mechanisms for potential outbreaks.
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Rural Development, Nilton Garrido, emphasized that prevention involves strengthening surveillance systems and training national veterinary services. A three-day workshop is currently underway with national and international specialists to define strategies for preventing, preparing for, and controlling this serious disease affecting small ruminants, which is considered vital for the rural economy and food security.
Why it mattersSao Tome and Principe's animal health and rural economy are at risk from the potential introduction of Peste des Petits Ruminants.