OH NET
One Health Networks for Strengthening AMR & Zoonotic Disease Prevention, Detection and Control in Africa
Context
Healthcare systems and animal health services in OH-NET partner countries face a diverse range of challenges. The widespread risk of infection from endemic pathogens with zoonotic potential is as prevalent as the emergence and spread of pathogens with epidemic potential and the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Limited diagnostic capacities and insufficient resources for surveillance and prevention are putting pressure on ecosystems, animal health, and human health. The main objective of the project is to strengthen the implementation of the One Health approach in the target region of sub-Saharan Africa, with a particular focus on cooperation with veterinary and agricultural institutions. Building on established contacts in the priority countries of Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania (focus on Zanzibar), and Ghana, the project also aims to further strengthen a sustainable network that was established through previous projects in the earlier GHPP phases. The priorities for cooperation were set by the partner countries: (i) strengthening the detection, prevention, and control of endemic and emerging zoonotic diseases; (ii) strengthening rabies control; (iii) controlling bacterial AMR; (iv) implementing country-specific processes for evidence-based policy formulation; and (v) establishing One Health-relevant public relations work that also reaches marginalised communities (partly linked to “COPE II”). A key implementation tool is the involvement of local young scientists and their targeted introduction to the practical application of the One Health approach. Overall, the project promotes cross-sectoral cooperation and strengthens sustainable regional integration in the spirit of a “community of practice.”
Objective
Improved implementation of the One Health approach at the national level in Namibia, Nigeria, and Tanzania/Zanzibar, as well as at the regional level in sub-Saharan Africa
In Cooperation with
- National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Nigeria
- Central Veterinary Laboratory, Windhoek, Namibia
- Zanzibar Agriculture and Livestock Research Institute, Zanzibar, Tanzania
- Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Nigeria
- University of Namibia, Windhoek and Neudamm Campus, Namibia
- Ministry of Environment and Tourism, Windhoek and Okaukuejo, Namibia
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine (KCCR), Kumasi, Ghana
- WHO Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
- WHO Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland
- Robert Koch-Institut, Berlin, Germany
- Bernhard-Nocht-Institut für Tropenmedizin, Hamburg, Germany
- Technologiezentrum Wasser, Karlsruhe, Germany
Thematic priorities
Facts
Activities
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Research and provision of evidence
OH-NET extends its work in monitoring and research on priority zoonotic pathogens through field studies at the interface between livestock and wildlife. It also further promotes One Health and evidence informed policy (EIP) capacities as well as assesses One Health challenges facing rural populations.
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Networking and cooperation
The project strengthens inter- and trans-sectoral knowledge exchange, promotes interaction between experts on regional challenges, as well as strengthens South-South networks in One Health.
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Capacity building
The project enhances capacity in the areas of laboratory diagnostics, disease monitoring, and evidence synthesis. It develops a One Health research agenda to improve the overall reach of the One Health approach at the political level. More so, OH-NET strengthens research approaches by involving young people.
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Training and competence development
OH-NET research stays in exchange between project partners. It designs and implements training courses, workshops, and networking events. It also supports master’s and dissertation projects on site.
