Togo livestock development is entering a decisive new phase as the nation adopts a structured, forward-looking strategy to eliminate peste des petits ruminants (PPR). This highly contagious disease continues to threaten goats and sheep across West Africa, weaken rural economies, and reduce the income of thousands of livestock farmers. Consequently, Togo has approved a comprehensive national plan that will guide its efforts from 2025 to 2030. The strategy, formally validated on Monday, November 17, 2025, in Lomé, reflects a national commitment to modernize animal health systems, strengthen community resilience, and build a more secure future for livestock owners. Togo livestock protection must evolve, and this plan offers the direction needed for long-term results.
The new roadmap emphasizes harmonized national actions because scattered interventions cannot produce sustained progress. Togo’s leadership understands that animal diseases require coordinated surveillance, consistent vaccination, and structured community engagement. Therefore, the plan outlines clear responsibilities for national agencies, local authorities, veterinary professionals, and community stakeholders. Each group plays a vital role in ensuring that PPR control efforts remain organized, reliable, and impactful. When national systems move together with shared goals, national progress accelerates.
Strengthening epidemiological surveillance remains one of the plan’s central pillars. Effective disease control depends on timely detection, accurate reporting, and rapid response. Togo aims to modernize its monitoring tools and expand its frontline capacity so communities can identify risks early. This investment supports local confidence because livestock farmers depend on predictable systems that safeguard their herds. Strong surveillance also helps the country align with international health standards, preparing it for future regional partnerships that promote shared animal health strategies. Togo livestock systems grow stronger when surveillance improves across all regions.
The plan also highlights systematic vaccination as a non-negotiable priority. Vaccination remains the most effective defense against PPR. Togo’s strategy ensures vaccines reach all communities, including remote areas where veterinary coverage is limited. This approach reduces infection risks, stabilizes herd productivity, and protects vulnerable farmers from sudden economic loss. Additionally, systematic vaccination helps Togo move closer to global PPR eradication goals supported by key international institutions. When herds receive consistent protection, national food systems become more reliable and resilient.
Another vital component of the roadmap is the establishment of an early warning system. Early alerts allow communities, veterinary teams, and government officials to act quickly when signs of infection appear. These systems reduce response delays, limit disease spread, and protect national livestock assets. Early warning tools will also integrate digital technologies, training programmes, and community networks to create a seamless flow of information. The success of Togo livestock systems depends on such proactive mechanisms that help prevent crises before they escalate.
Capacity building for veterinary services remains an equally important priority within the plan. PPR control requires skilled professionals who can conduct field investigations, coordinate vaccination campaigns, and guide farmers through disease prevention practices. Togo aims to strengthen its veterinary workforce through updated training, improved field resources, and enhanced laboratory capabilities. These investments ensure that disease control efforts remain efficient, science-driven, and ready to meet emerging challenges. When professionals receive the right tools, communities gain the confidence needed to expand livestock production.
Moreover, the strategic plan supports initiatives that stabilize farmers’ incomes. Livestock plays a central role in rural livelihoods, and disease outbreaks create sudden financial hardship. By protecting herds through surveillance, vaccination, and early detection, Togo safeguards the economic stability of thousands of households. This approach aligns agricultural development with public welfare because healthier animals translate to stronger communities, improved nutrition, and greater economic resilience.
Togo livestock systems continue to evolve through clear vision, structured planning, and national collaboration. The new PPR strategy demonstrates a deep commitment to protecting herds, empowering farmers, and strengthening local economies. With consistent implementation and strong leadership, Togo will advance toward a future where livestock farming becomes more secure, more productive, and more sustainable.
