Yemen Animal Health Strategy and Investment Plan (YAHSIP) 2024 - 2034.

The Yemen Animal Health Strategy and Investment Plan (YAHSIP) is a comprehensive national document with the multiple objectives of (i) establishing a robust and responsive animal health system that provides an animal health framework that enhances domestic food security and increases access to livestock and livestock products to national, regional and international markets; (ii) ensuring sustainable livestock growth, environmental stewardship, biosecurity, and safeguarding farmer livelihoods, and (iii) fostering collaboration for disease control, efficient regulation of imports and exports, and enhancing global market competitiveness for Yemeni farmers. YAHSIP's four-pronged Strategy emphasizes disease containment, equitable access to veterinary care, compassionate treatment of animals, and defense against zoonotic threats. Stakeholders are invited to contribute expertise and resources to collectively transform Yemen's livestock sector. Through targeted interventions, capacity building, and strategic investments, the Plan envisions a future where Yemen's livestock sector thrives, supporting the well-being of communities and contributing to sustainable development in the country. The FAO has developed a comprehensive set of strategies to address the crucial role of animal health in ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture. Emphasizing the threat of zoonotic and emerging infectious diseases, the organization advocates for early warning and rapid response systems. Strengthening veterinary services and surveillance programs is a key focus to improve disease monitoring and epidemiological intelligence. Simultaneously, the Theory of Change (ToC) underscores how enhanced animal health can lead to positive outcomes, contributing to a more sustainable and equitable food system. Investing in animal health can help Yemen build a resilient and equitable food system. The Strategy sets out some challenging specific objectives that are separated into four broad categories (1) minimize the spread of infectious/endemic diseases in animals by implementing vaccination programs, regular health monitoring, and quarantine measures in line with the WOAH standards; (2) improve access to veterinary services across different Governorates in Yemen; (3) emphasize the protection and welfare of animals, promoting humane treatment, and preventing cruelty and exploitation; (4) guard against and mitigate the effects of zoonotic diseases in animals which might imperil human health.
The document outlines several Strategic Pillars, or thematic investment areas, designed to achieve the goal by 2034. These include (i) enhancing the capacity of national veterinary institutes to deliver efficient animal health services, ensuring significant improvements in preventing, diagnosing, and treating animal diseases for the well-being of livestock; (ii) improving disease prevention and control strategies for safe animal health delivery, safeguarding public health, protecting farmers' livelihoods, and ensuring food security; (iii) establishing comprehensive monitoring systems at the interfaces between humans, animals, and the environment to prevent, detect, and respond to health issues, supported by advanced data analysis tools; (iv) strengthening emergency readiness for key animal diseases and livestock challenges arising from climate change, fostering collaboration among stakeholders to develop strategies for early detection, rapid response, and effective management; (v) implementing long-term frameworks for consistent coordination, ensuring proper care, vaccinations, and protection of animals from diseases and infections. Detailed programs and budget forecasts accompany each Pillar.
The document underscores the vital role of livestock in Yemeni society, acting as a source of sustenance, economic empowerment, and cultural heritage. It stresses the necessity for a transparent framework to discuss policy priorities, delivery arrangements, and progress monitoring. The successful implementation of the YAHSIP hinges on a robust partnership among all stakeholders engaged in animal health and welfare. The Government's pivotal role in executing various outlined activities is a focal point of this implementation, emphasizing its role in translating the Strategy into action. Envisioned within this framework is an assessment structure for gauging the success of the Strategy. This includes incorporating indicators, specific goals, and milestones for delivery. Progress will be consistently measured, monitored, and communicated throughout the Strategy's duration, with evaluation studies conducted to assess the impact of policies. An annual reporting process ensures transparent communication of progress aligned with the Strategy's objectives.