Experts from Seychelles and Kenya are participating in a workshop to develop a national biological risk assessment tool as part of Project 99. This initiative aims to identify potential biological incidents over the next five years, ensuring preparedness for both countries. The workshop emphasizes a comprehensive approach to biological risks, linking human, animal, and environmental health.
A collaboration between Seychelles and Kenya is underway, involving experts from both nations who are participating in a vital workshop aimed at developing a national biological risk assessment tool. This initiative is part of Project 99, a European Union-supported effort focused on enhancing biological incident preparedness in Eastern and Central Africa. The workshop is being held at the Savoy Resort and Spa in Beau Vallon, where approximately 30 specialists, each with expertise in health, agriculture, and environmental safety, convene for five days to map out potential biological threats in their regions.
During the workshop, participants will work together to identify areas most susceptible to biological incidents, as well as strategize for potential outbreaks that may arise in the next five years. Dr. Jimmy Melanie, representing Seychelles, emphasized the importance of understanding the evolving risks due to ongoing regional development, highlighting that threats can stem from chemical, radiological, or biological origins. He noted that a thorough assessment would include recognizing illnesses in animals that could adversely affect human health, such as avian influenza.
The first training for this initiative took place in Nairobi in June, where the foundational components of the assessment tool were introduced. This systematic effort aims to ensure that experts are well-prepared to provide the necessary information to national authorities concerning biological risks by 2026. Scott Spence, the project’s team leader, stated participants would be equipped to identify emerging threats and develop appropriate response strategies. Furthermore, the workshop embraces a ‘one health perspective’, connecting human health with animal and environmental health, ensuring a comprehensive approach to future risk assessment.
The initiative stems from Project 99, which is focused on enhancing the capacity and preparedness of Eastern and Central African countries against biological incidents. Supported by the European Union and facilitated by the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute, this collaborative project involves eleven member states, including Seychelles, Kenya, and Burundi. The goal is to establish sustainable mechanisms for identifying and managing biological risks, taking into account the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
In conclusion, the ongoing workshop in Seychelles represents a significant step toward enhancing preparedness for biological threats in the region. By employing a collaborative approach and utilizing a comprehensive biological risk assessment tool, experts from Seychelles and Kenya aim to effectively address potential risks in the coming years. This initiative not only prepares the countries for possible biological incidents but also promotes a healthier future for both humans and ecosystems involved.
Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com
