Successful Dog Vaccination and Castration Campaign in Northern Malawi

Malawi-During the free vaccination and castration week in February this year, a total of 22,833 dogs were vaccinated, according to a report from the Center for Community Empowerment Initiative, writes Victor Musongole.

The campaign was carried out in three districts - Mzimba North, Mzimba South, Rumphi, and Nkhata Bay - and was deemed successful.

"The vaccinators were able to reach even the remotest areas of the districts, thanks to adequate fuel and transport," said Executive Director Gilbert Banda in the report.

"This enabled us to utilize some vaccines that were on the verge of expiring due to inadequate resources that could be used to meet logistics requirements."

The report also highlighted the impact of massive awareness campaigns that generated demand for the Rabies vaccine among communities that previously had reservations due to concerns that the vaccine made dogs docile.

"The free exercise was highly patronized because people saw the opportunity to save costs," said Banda in an interview.

"It is very costly to vaccinate or castrate dogs, so thanks to our partners for making this campaign possible."

Pemphani Chawinga, a resident of Mzuzu, whose dog was castrated during the campaign, emphasized the importance of responsible dog ownership and following vaccination schedules.

"I'm very happy that I vaccinated and castrated my dog at no cost, I feel more safe now," said Chawinga.

"I urge other people who did not vaccinate their pets to take advantage of these services during future campaigns, as they help ensure a rabies-free environment for everyone."

The campaign was funded by Veterinarians Without Borders from the Netherlands and the Edgar and Cooper Foundation.