Seychelles and Kenya are developing a national biological risk assessment tool as part of Project 99, aimed at improving preparedness for biological incidents. A workshop gathered experts from health and agriculture sectors to analyze potential risks and develop strategic responses. The initiative emphasizes the importance of a ‘one health perspective’ and is funded by the European Commission with support from UNICRI.
Seychelles and Kenya are currently collaborating to develop a national biological risk assessment tool designed to identify critical areas susceptible to biological incidents over the next five years. A workshop at the Savoy Resort and Spa in Beau Vallon gathers 30 experts from health and agriculture sectors who play pivotal roles in their nations’ biological incident responses. This initiative falls under the European Union’s CBRN and Centres of Excellence Project 99, aimed at enhancing preparedness for biological threats in Eastern and Central Africa.
During this five-day workshop, specialists will analyze biological risks associated with animal diseases that could impact human populations, as well as other environmental toxins. Dr. Jimmy Melanie from Seychelles emphasized the need to assess risks arising from developments in their nations, identifying threats such as avian influenza among others that could damage public health. The insights gained from this workshop and a past training session in Nairobi will culminate in a comprehensive risk assessment to better equip authorities by 2026.
The project’s goals extend to recognizing emerging biological threats and worst-case scenarios, including potential pandemics. In this collaborative effort, there is a notable focus on integrating the ‘one health perspective’, which acknowledges the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health. Project 99 aims to enhance communication among stakeholders and implement strategic responses to biological risks.
The European Commission is funding this significant initiative, with support from the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute (UNICRI), aiming to ensure both Seychelles and Kenya are prepared for biological risks that could threaten public health.
The development of a biological risk assessment tool is critical for both Seychelles and Kenya as they collectively face growing biological threats due to changes in environmental conditions and increased human activity. The collaboration under Project 99 exemplifies a proactive approach to risk management in addressing biological incidents, particularly with regard to diseases that may cross from animals to humans. Capacity building in this domain is vital, especially considering the expertise of participants in various sectors that directly correlate with biological health and safety. By focusing on aspects such as pandemics, chemical hazards, and agricultural impacts, the workshop aims to create a framework for better preparedness and response strategies, which are paramount in safeguarding public health. The integration of the one health perspective forms the foundation for recognizing the interconnected nature of environmental health and the biological risks that arise from it.
In conclusion, the workshop in Seychelles marks a significant step towards enhancing biological risk management in the region. By fostering collaboration among experts from Seychelles and Kenya, Project 99 aims to create a robust framework for identifying and mitigating biological threats. The integration of varied sectoral expertise emphasizes the critical interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health while preparing for future challenges effectively. As the project unfolds towards 2026, the outcomes are expected to provide invaluable insights for local authorities and stakeholders.
Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com
