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The Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA) was represented at the 52nd Ordinary Meeting of the South American Commission for the Fight Against Foot-and-Mouth Disease (COSALFA), held in Georgetown, Guyana, by Dr. Gavin Peters, CEO of CAHFSA and Dr. Nneka Hull James, Animal Health Specialist.
The meeting convened delegates from the public and private sectors, as well as international observers, to advance regional efforts toward the eradication of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). Organized by the Pan American Foot-and-Mouth Disease Center and Veterinary Public Health (PANAFTOSA/SPV) of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the event highlighted the importance of strong regional collaboration and coordination in animal health.
COSALFA 52 served as a key platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange among countries. Discussions reflected a high level of cooperation and reinforced regional integration, highlighting Guyana’s strategic role as a bridge between South America and the Caribbean. During this meeting CAHFSA participated in an insightful panel discussion and presentation on FMD Emergency preparation and Preparedness in the Caribbean. CAHFSA’s participation underscores its role in supporting CARICOM Member States and aligning regional animal health efforts with broader hemispheric initiatives.
The opening ceremony was attended by the President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, H.E. Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, and the Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha. Both reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to animal health, food security, and regional cooperation.
A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the 2026 – 2030 Action Plan of the Hemispheric Program for the Eradication of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (PHEFA). This plan will guide the Region through the final phase of eradication, building on the progress already achieved.
Countries emphasized the importance of its effective implementation, including:
- Addressing specific epidemiological challenges, particularly in Venezuela
- Maintaining and consolidating the FMD-free status of countries
- Strengthening preparedness for the final stages of eradication
Participants also analyzed the evolving global risk landscape, characterized by a complex epidemiological situation and the circulation of different FMD virus serotypes.
CAHFSA’s participation in COSALFA 52 reflects its ongoing commitment to strengthening animal health systems in the CARICOM and contributing to regional and hemispheric efforts to prevent and control transboundary animal diseases.
Through active engagement in platforms such as COSALFA, CAHFSA continues to promote collaboration, knowledge exchange, and coordinated action to safeguard livestock, livelihoods, and food security across the Region.
