Decoding the power of Risk and Crisis Communications in Animal Health Emergencies.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) held a training on Risk and Crisis Communication for Animal Health Emergencies from 21-17 April in Windhoek, Namibia. This workshop was part of the Fortifying Institutional Resilience against Biological Threats (FIRABioT) Project supported by Global Affairs Canada‘s Weapons Threat Reduction Program. 

WOAH recognises the importance of clear communication in safeguarding animal and human health, particularly in the face of today’s emerging threats, including those posed by deliberate biological events. Through this training, 42 animal health experts from across Africa, including representatives from Algeria, Congo (Republic), Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Morocco, Namibia, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe were trained. To ensure a well-rounded learning experience, an experienced facilitator, and several external experts from Africa and different global institutions led the workshop sessions.  

Participants were able to learn about a range of essential skills for building strong communication during animal health emergencies which included: 

1. Developing Risk Communication Strategies: Participants learned how to develop and evaluate communication plans tailored to specific situations. 
2. Stakeholder Mapping and Engagement: Participants unpacked the critical role of stakeholders and how they can be engaged. They built an understanding of how to approach and engage communities as key stakeholders.  
3. Countering Misinformation and Disinformation: Techniques for recognising and mitigating the spread of false information were addressed. 
4. Developing Key Messages: Participants learned to craft clear, concise, and compelling messages for various audiences. 
5. Media Relations and Engagement: The training equipped participants with the skills to effectively interact with the media during a crisis. They also carried out simulation exercises that put their newfound skills to the test through realistic scenarios.   

Looking ahead 

For animal health professionals in the region, effective communication is vital for managing animal health emergencies and protecting animal welfare. Veterinary Services play an important part in risk and crisis communications during emergency response situations, whether these emergencies are the result of a natural, accidental or deliberate origin. Participants were encouraged to foster collaboration and transparent communication to promote trust and understanding among their stakeholders and partners.  

The training presented a huge step forward in improving the risk and crisis communication capacities of Veterinary Services throughout Africa. By emphasising clear and effective communication, Veterinary Services and animal health experts can better protect animal health while also safeguarding public health. 

Acknowledgements

The FIRABioT Project is implemented