One Health central to livestock productivity

According to The Express Tribune, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain is taking part in the FAO Global Conference for Actions on One Health in Agrifood Systems in Rome. The meeting, running from September 21 to 23, seeks to turn the One Health approach into practical steps. Its agenda spans plant and animal illnesses, food safety, sustainable environments and human health.

He framed the approach as vital for Pakistan's food supply, livestock output, rural livelihoods and sound farming practices. He stressed that worldwide pledges need to become hands-on work within each country, backed by coordination and delivery. In his view, the national priority is sturdier, healthier livestock and food production.

He listed disease prevention, better biosecurity, prudent antimicrobial use and stronger veterinary services as measures to safeguard animal and human health. Pastoralists, he said, are central to the livestock economy and need more help, including greater access to animal health care, water, fodder and markets. On food safety, he called for consumers to be protected from farm to table, with tighter surveillance of food-borne diseases and antimicrobial resistance. He also highlighted women's contribution to livestock output and household nutrition.