Algeria Ramps Up Efforts to Combat Bovine Disease: Major Vaccine Imports, Nationwide Immunization Campaign Planned for September

✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | August 23rd, 2024 — The Algerian government is escalating its fight against Contagious Nodular Dermatosis (CND), a viral disease threatening the nation’s cattle population, with the imminent importation of a second substantial batch of vaccines. This marks a critical step in a broader plan to generalize the vaccination of livestock across all wilayas by September. The announcement was made by Youcef Cherfa, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, during a visit to Tipasa on Thursday, August 22.

Addressing the media following his working visit, Minister Cherfa reassured farmers regarding the government’s preparedness to counter the spread of CND. “We have secured sufficient quantities within our strategic vaccine stock to meet national demands,” the minister stated, emphasizing the ongoing nature of preventative measures. He added that the arrival of this second batch would enable Algeria to broaden the vaccination campaign to all wilayas, including those that have yet to report any cases of the disease.

This expanded immunization effort follows the initial phase of the vaccination campaign, which commenced earlier in the week after the arrival of the first shipment of vaccines. The ministry’s communiqué underscored the government’s resolve to contain the disease and ultimately eradicate it in order to safeguard the nation’s livestock resources.

“CND is a viral disease that exclusively affects cattle and poses no risk to humans,” Cherfa clarified, in an effort to alleviate public concerns. He further assured that the strategic vaccine reserves are adequate to cover all regions of the country, in accordance with government projections.

Strategic Investments in Agricultural Infrastructure

In addition to addressing the pressing issue of cattle disease, Minister Cherfa highlighted ongoing efforts to bolster Algeria’s agricultural sector. He announced the completion of the General Agricultural Census (RGA), launched in May, with preliminary results expected in October and final data slated for release by the end of the year. “The RGA results will provide us with reliable data on the sector’s resources and capacities, guiding our future development strategies,” Cherfa explained.

During his visit to Tipasa, the minister, accompanied by Wali Aboubakr Seddik Boucetta, laid the foundation stone for two local storage centers dedicated to grains and pulses. These centers are part of a larger national initiative to establish 350 such facilities across the country, of which 224 have already begun construction.

“This ambitious program, currently in full swing thanks to the proactive efforts of the regional governors who have resolved land allocation challenges, aligns with the President of the Republic’s broader plan to enhance national capacity for strategic crop storage. These centers will significantly bolster our storage capabilities once operational, starting from February 2025,” the minister elaborated.

Government Commitment to Supporting Private Agricultural Investments

Minister Cherfa also inspected a poultry complex specializing in eggs and laying hens during his trip. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting and facilitating private agricultural investments, particularly those leveraging advanced technologies in farming and irrigation. His visits to several agricultural enterprises highlighted the government’s strategy to encourage innovation and modern agricultural practices.

 

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