Senegal and Togo
Still a minority : integration of women in the veterinary sector
February 28, 2024
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Woman cattle farmer in Togo. Picture (c) P. Bastiaensen (fao) 1997
This is the theme of International Women’s Day 2024 which WOAH Africa is celebrating today and every day and inviting you to join in with us. When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment.
Ongoing research and partnerships between WOAH and its Members show us that there is still a long way to go to enable women’s empowerment in the animal health sector. Yet there are clear ways forward.
Woman poultry farmer in São Tomé and Principe. Picture (c) P. Bastiaensen (padp) 2002
Recent studies from Senegal and Togo show how all sorts of people and institutions (governments, veterinary statutory bodies, veterinary associations and paraprofessional associations, training institutions, employers, and livestock cooperatives, amongst others) can improve conditions for women’s engagement in the sector, leading to improved animal health overall.
Interviews with senior professionals in Africa (Nigeria and Namibia) show how women leaders are acting as role models to advance the fields of veterinary research and practice.
Laboratory results' analyses in São Tomé and Principe. Picture (c) P. Bastiaensen (padp) 2000
To start accessing those futures, we can ask questions like:
You can ask these questions to animal health professionals you know or work with and start conversations in your communities about what these futures might look like.
Together, we can #InspireInclusion.
