Indian Ocean Ministers discuss “One health network”
Balaclava, Mauritius (PANA) - Indian Ocean Ministers and representatives of Ministries in charge of health and livestock from the IOC member states, as well as other stakeholders met on Friday in Mauritius to finalize the modalities for perpetuating the SEGA – One Health network and validate the regional health security strategy for the region.
The Mauritian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Mr. Maneesh Gobin, said the world was confronted with emerging and potential health problems, unexpected incidents, and calamities, which all necessitated effective and responsive national health monitoring and safety systems, in line with the global health safety system.
Member States, he pointed out, have been confronted with several major health crises resulting in economical, human, and animal losses. They include: the Chikungunya epidemic; the Rift Valley fever; the H1N1 pandemic virus; and the foot-and-mouth disease.
He elaborated on the monumental impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and highlighted that it had forced humanity to engage in deep introspection and learn invaluable lessons.
”One of the lessons underlines the pivotal role of epidemiological surveillance in controlling disease and promoting public well-being which involves rapid identification of public health events or potential risks, and taking necessary measures to mitigate the effects, he added.
According to him, collaboratioTn is a prerequisite to strengthen regional surveillance, increased risk prevention, enhanced response capabilities and the deployment of new technologies.
The SEGA – One Health network programme - is the perfect embodiment of regional cooperation in public, animal, and environmental health, he added.
The Secretary General of the IOC, Mr. Vêlayoudom Marimoutou, underlined the vulnerability of the region in the face of climate change.
According to the World Health Organization, he stated, there will be an increase in human loss by 2030 because of climate change. He thus emphasized the need for the Member countries to be proactive and chart the way forward to become more resilient, reinforce food security and ensure health and well-being in the Indian Ocean region.
-0-PANA NA/RA 16Sept2023
