Biennial Plan 2024-2025 for strengthening technical cooperation from PANAFTOSA towards the consolidation of the Hemispheric Program for the Eradication of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (PHEFA)

Abstract

It is acknowledged that the technical coordination and cooperation provided by PANAFTOSA/PAHO within the framework of the Hemispheric Program for the Eradication of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (PHEFA) has been decisive for the progress made and it is still necessary for the complete eradication of the disease in the continent, without jeopardizing the progress made. The PHEFA remains in effect although the region reflected its best historical record in 2023, consecutively, regarding areas recognized as free by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH). Additionally, the countries continue to be oriented toward the execution of the PHEFA Plan of Action 2021-2025 to complete the eradication of foot-and-mouth disease, while also seeking to strengthen prevention and the capacity of veterinary services of the countries of the continent to respond to a potential foot-and-mouth disease emergency. The funding modality of PANAFTOSA/PAHO’s technical cooperation for the PHEFA is based on PAHO’s contribution with international professionals responsible of the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) area and the reference laboratory, as well as the resources obtained from the reference material supplied to the countries. Additionally, it includes a model of voluntary contributions linked to specific projects with the countries. Therefore, the aforementioned is reflected in the costs referred to for this Biennial Plan 2024-2025. The expected outcomes of the mentioned plan will contribute to the goals outlined in the PHEFA Plan of Action 2021-2025, with a priority vision from PANAFTOSA/PAHO that takes into account COSALFA resolutions, aiming to prepare the countries for the final stage of the PHEFA. Based on these guidelines, and considering the current situation, PANAFTOSA/PAHO has elaborated the present proposal of the Biennial Technical Cooperation Plan 2024-2025 to consolidate the PHEFA.