Vaccination of livestock as a catalyst for peacebuilding in the Central African Republic
Concordis is undertaking a comprehensive vaccination program for livestock in the Bamingui-Bangoran region, Central African Republic, which extends to migrant herders’ cattle, settled farmers and Sudanese herders’ cattle. The goal of this initiative goes beyond the good health of the animals – it is also about promoting social cohesion and challenging the “us versus them” mentality, creating an environment for peace.
In the Central African Republic, livestock represents a lucrative and crucial sector of economic activity, contributing to 15% of the total GDP. This economic significance is mostly evident in the northern provinces of the country, particularly when the dry season forces herders to and from Chad, Cameroon, and Sudan to search for fresh pastures and watering points. And then the war in Sudan compelled Sudanese herders to seek refuge in CAR and spend the rainy season there.
Healthy livestock gives community confidence, addresses the roots of conflict and creates conditions for peace.
Farmers’ and herders’ livelihoods are highly dependent on their livestock, and if one of their cows dies or gets sick, it has a big impact on their income. Contamination of the area’s livestock in 2017 undermined the community’s confidence and made all outsiders seem a threat.
That is why the ongoing vaccination program in the Bamingui-Bangoran region, with additional measures such as parasite treatment and veterinary care for sick animals, represents a step forward in enhancing the health and economic sustainability of local communities.
The campaign is an equally important step in the promotion of public health and conservation in the region, as it offers protection not only to livestock but also reduces the risk of transmission to endangered species in national parks.
As hostility reduces, foundations can be laid for improved relations. Concordis’ teams can work to improve lines of communication between groups who have been living alongside each other in tension.
Rolling out the vaccination plan: collaboration is key.
We believe in partnership: national and international organisations working collaboratively with each other. In collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross, Wildlife Conservation Society, people employed by the government, the Ministry of Livestock and the important support of the local population, Concordis successfully launched this initiative in July of 2023. By its concluding stage, we plan to have vaccinated 60,000 cattle, 60,000 sheep and goats, and 12,500 chickens.
Ensuring all the local population is actively involved in all stages of the vaccination process creates a chain of events that contributes to the broader goal of creating a conducive environment for peaceful coexistence. Safe spaces are created for dialogue and collaboration between communities. During the vaccination programs, young people join efforts for a common goal, enjoy meals together, and build bonds.
This is key as it contributes to changing the next generation’s social perception and establishes trust on both sides. Friendship, or at least appreciation, creates a chance for peace.