Veterinary experts in Malawi have underscored the role of collaboration, innovation and professional growth in advancing animal health and livestock development.
Veterinary experts in Malawi have underscored the role of collaboration, innovation and professional growth in advancing animal health and livestock development. This was emphasised during an Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lilongwe, which brought together key stakeholders in the agriculture sector.
Speaking at the gathering, Director of Veterinary Services in the Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Dr Julius Chulu, described the AGM as an important platform for shaping the future of the veterinary profession in Malawi.
“This annual general meeting is where the next policy direction for the coming year is set. We are also selecting new office bearers and creating awareness among Malawians that the veterinary profession is here to assist with issues related to animal health and livestock development,” he said.
Chulu emphasised that the future of veterinary services lies in collaboration, noting that neither government nor the private sector can operate effectively in isolation.
“We want to work together with academia, farmers, private veterinarians, animal scientists and local councils to ensure that Malawi becomes a country that is safe in locally produced livestock and livestock products,” he added.
He further outlined progress in the sector, pointing to a steady increase in the number of trained veterinary professionals. From as few as 14 veterinarians a decade ago, Malawi now boasts over 80 practitioners nationwide, with more than 30 employed within government alone.
The country is also producing its own veterinary doctors and technicians through institutions such as Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources and Mikolongwe College of Veterinary Sciences.
“Every year, we are graduating an average of 10 veterinary doctors and about 50 technicians. Government is committed to ensuring that every corner of Malawi has access to quality veterinary services,” said Chulu.
Despite this progress, he acknowledged persistent challenges such as animal diseases, attributing their prevalence partly to climate change and increased interaction between livestock, wildlife and human populations.
“Diseases will always be there. With climate change and population growth, animals and humans are living closer together, increasing the risk of disease transmission,” he explained.
Adding an international perspective, Chair of General Veterinary Practice at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Professor Adam Tjolle, commended Malawi for its rapid growth in the veterinary field.
“Malawi is one of the most exponentially growing countries in terms of animal welfare and veterinary development. It is an exciting time for the profession, with strong leadership and increasing numbers of homegrown veterinarians,” he said.
Tjolle encouraged private practitioners to explore income-generating opportunities by working closely with communities, while promoting animal welfare and professional pride.
Veterinarian and Treasurer of the association, Peter Mwale, described the AGM as a crucial forum for knowledge sharing across diverse sectors, including government, private practice, livestock, wildlife and companion animals.
“This meeting brings together veterinarians from different backgrounds to share experiences, challenges and solutions aimed at strengthening the profession,” he said.
Mwale also raised concern over rising cases of animal cruelty, calling for greater public awareness and stricter enforcement of animal welfare standards.
“Animals feel pain and have needs just like humans. Unfortunately, we still see cases where animals are mistreated, such as being transported inhumanely or denied food and water,” he said.
He noted that authorities are working with government agencies and law enforcement to address such issues, including confiscating animals in severe cases of neglect or abuse.
As the AGM continues, stakeholders remain optimistic that strengthened collaboration and sustained investment in veterinary services will enhance animal welfare, boost livestock production and contribute to national food security.
#MBCDigital
#Manthu
