Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) Eradication at Forefront of African Livestock Health Initiatives
Dar es Salaam: Millions of African families rely on sheep and goats for vital resources, including food, school fees, and medical care. These animals are central to household resilience, particularly in rural communities. Recognising this importance, efforts are intensifying to eliminate Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), a contagious viral disease threatening livestock across the continent.
On September 22, 2026, political leaders and animal health experts gathered in Rome at the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) headquarters. Discussions focused on turning political commitments into actionable funding for PPR eradication, amidst the FAO Global Conference on Agrifood Systems Transformation.
Tanzania’s Prime Minister, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, highlighted the country’s investment in vaccination and veterinary systems as part of a broader strategy to transform agrifood systems. He emphasized, “Transforming agrifood systems requires investment not only in production but also in systems that protect people, animals, and ecosystems.”
Tanzania has made significant strides in controlling PPR, previously focusing on cattle, but is now concentrating on sheep and goats, essential for many rural households. Dr Nchemba announced that in the 2025/26 financial year, over 16.8 million sheep and goats were vaccinated against PPR, with continued funding for further phases of the campaign.
However, Tanzania’s efforts extend beyond mere vaccination. The government is enhancing livestock identification, disease surveillance, and veterinary services to create proactive disease prevention systems. “We are investing in systems, not simply responding to outbreaks,” said Dr Nchemba.
Recognizing PPR as a transboundary disease, he noted the necessity for regional cooperation. Livestock movements across borders can facilitate disease spread, making coordinated efforts crucial for effective control. Dr Nchemba illustrated this by remarking on the rapid movement of animals compared to political discussions on regional integration.
Over 70 countries report PPR, which, while not a threat to human health, severely impacts household incomes and food security. A 2016 global study suggested that a 15-year PPR eradication programme could yield $76.5 billion in economic benefits for an investment of approximately $2.26 billion.
The discussions in Rome led to a commitment for a 2040 PPR eradication target, with a strong emphasis on crafting viable investment plans. The European Union pledged an additional €50 million for PPR eradication, further encouraging collaboration and financial contributions from other partners, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Leaders stressed that vaccination alone would not suffice for eradication. A comprehensive approach, including strong surveillance systems and cross-border cooperation, is essential. Countries are encouraged to build on existing strategies to close financing gaps and accelerate implementation efforts.
For Tanzania, aligning investment in vaccination with broader livestock health systems is crucial. For pastoralists and smallholder farmers, the goal of eradicating PPR transcends animal health, encompassing food security and community resilience.
As Africa moves toward the 2040 PPR eradication goal, maintaining political focus, securing sustainable funding, and enhancing cross-border cooperation will be vital. For the millions dependent on livestock, eliminating PPR represents a critical step towards ensuring stable livelihoods and food security.
