2 days ago
Calls to integrate animal welfare into South Africa's One Health policy
Calls to integrate animal welfare into South Africa's One Health policy
Urgent calls to recognise animal welfare as central to South Africa's development were made during the 2025 State of Animal Welfare Address (#SOAWA).
The online symposium was hosted by FOUR PAWS South Africa and livestreamed on Wednesday.
The annual event brings together government, academic and civil society leaders to discuss the role of animal welfare in building a just, resilient and sustainable South Africa. This year's focus was on companion, farm and wild animals — sectors often overlooked in national One Health strategies.
'It is time to mainstream animal welfare into our national development strategy – not as a luxury, but as a necessity for resilience, justice and health,' said FOUR PAWS South Africa director Fiona Miles.
Dr André Coetzer of the Global Alliance for Rabies Control warned that neglecting dogs and cats undermines disease control efforts, highlighting the importance of mass vaccination and sterilisation campaigns.
Dr Masika Sophie from the World Federation for Animals linked industrial farming to public health risks, citing antimicrobial resistance, zoonotic outbreaks, and food insecurity as major concerns.
Miles also addressed the captive wildlife industry, warning that the commodification of wild animals, especially big cats, is unethical and dangerous, and undermines conservation.
Moderated by Dr Tedson Nkoana from Future Africa, the panel discussed making South Africa's One Health Action Plan more effective by integrating animal welfare as a core element.
He emphasised the need for cross-sector collaboration between health, agriculture, and environment departments.
Miles called for political champions to embed animal welfare into policy, budgets and science, and for NGOs to work strategically and in unity to advance the issue.
'South Africa has the opportunity and responsibility to lead globally by building a humane, healthy and sustainable future,' she said.
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