Seychelles and Kenya are developing a national biological risk assessment tool through Project 99, with a workshop currently taking place to prepare experts from both countries. The initiative aims to identify areas vulnerable to biological risks and enhance responses to potential incidents, while fostering collaboration among health and agricultural specialists.
Experts from Seychelles and Kenya are actively developing a national biological risk assessment tool aimed at identifying critical areas for biological risk assessment over the next five years. A workshop, currently underway at the Savoy Resort and Spa in Beau Vallon, brings together 30 specialists from diverse fields such as health and agriculture. This initiative forms part of Project 99, supported by the European Union, which is focused on enhancing preparedness and capacity to manage potential biological incidents in Eastern and Central Africa.
The participating countries, including Seychelles and Kenya, are collaborating to pinpoint regions susceptible to biological threats, with the goal of strengthening their response strategies. A statement from Dr. Jimmy Melanie, a representative from Seychelles, highlighted the importance of this training, stating, “This training will help us map our risks, as we can see there is so much development happening that risks can be chemical or radiology or even biological.”
This workshop focuses specifically on biological risks, which encompass zoonotic diseases that can transition from animals to humans, as well as the threats posed by plant toxins, viruses, and bacteria. Dr. Melanie emphasized the necessity for Seychelles to evaluate its vulnerabilities, citing the danger of diseases such as bird flu. The project, funded by the European Commission and assisted by UNICRI, will extend until 2026, allowing experts to compile a comprehensive list of biological risks encountered by the member countries.
At the end of the five-day workshop, participants will be equipped to identify emerging threats and potential biological risks. Joris Sprokholt, a key expert in the project, indicated that attendees would also consider “the worst-case scenarios of outbreaks,” including potential pandemics. He noted the significance of the information generated during the workshop, which is crucial for various stakeholders, including NGOs and veterinary professionals, emphasizing a holistic approach that intertwines human, animal, environmental, and plant health.
The collaboration between Seychelles and Kenya under Project 99 involves the development of a biological risk assessment tool to enhance the capacity for identifying and responding to biological threats in Eastern and Central Africa. This initiative comes in response to growing concerns about the increasing risks associated with human, animal, and environmental health. The workshop serves as a platform for capacity building, with participants exchanging knowledge and strategies to develop effective responses to potential biological incidents.
In summary, the ongoing workshop in Seychelles represents a significant step towards enhancing biological risk assessment capabilities within the region. By fostering collaboration among experts from Seychelles, Kenya, and other member countries, the initiative aims to devise strategies to mitigate risks associated with biological incidents. The emphasis on a comprehensive understanding of biological threats underscores the importance of preparedness in combating future challenges that might arise in public health and safety.
Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com
