Strengthening PPR Eradication in Conflict-Affected/ Security-Fragile African Union Member States: A Strategy for Countries with Special Needs

Abstract

This paper presents a continental strategy for eradicating Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) in conflict-affected and security-fragile African Union Member States. Developed by AU-IBAR technical experts in collaboration with AU-PANVAC, FAO, and WOAH, and supported by the European Union, the strategy builds on lessons from rinderpest eradication and applies conflict-sensitive, community-driven, and technology-enabled approaches. It emphasises adaptive delivery models, community trust, youth and women engagement, and the use of digital surveillance and traceability systems to extend vaccination and disease control to hard-to-reach areas. The paper provides an operational framework to ensure inclusive progress toward PPR eradication by 2030, while strengthening livelihoods, food security, and resilient livestock systems across Africa.