Strengthening animal health services for horses and donkeys in South Sudan

Background

Horses and donkeys are indispensable to many families in South Sudan. They help with farm work, transport water, food, and goods, and thus support the daily lives and livelihoods of many households. In the Northern Bahr el Ghazal region, food insecurity, limited access to health services, and a lack of veterinary care make life difficult for both people and animals. Working animals, which are vital to the survival of many families, often do not receive the necessary care and medical attention. Illnesses, injuries, and overwork impair their well-being and, consequently, the livelihoods of their owners.

Objective

The project improves the health and well-being of horses and donkeys while simultaneously strengthening the livelihoods of the people who depend on them.

Approach

VSF-Suisse promotes the welfare of horses and donkeys through awareness-raising, training, and the expansion of local veterinary services. Animal owners, traders, and authorities learn how to keep, care for, and maintain the health of working animals in a species-appropriate manner.

A central component of the project is the training of local animal health workers (CAHWs). They are trained in the treatment and prevention of diseases in horses and donkeys and equipped with the necessary materials. This gives animal owners, even in remote regions, access to basic veterinary care.

In addition, the project creates income opportunities along the value chain and supports families in building sustainable livelihoods.

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