Convincing results

In November 2015, the third Chinese agricultural mission arrived in Djibouti for a period of two years. “Their arrival came at just the right time,” said Cheik, as the country had just bought goats from Kenya to increase local milk production.

To ensure the animal health, the Chinese experts carried out all the necessary tests on local livestock from sampling to disease treatment, including various laboratory analysis and vaccinations. “They are well equipped and cover all aspects of animal health. Their work is effective and clear,” Cheik told Chinafrica.

With one of the largest modern sea ports in East Africa, Djibouti serves as a commercial hub for the entire region and a transfer port for international livestock trade, in particular for neighboring countries such as Somalia and Ethiopia. Ensuring animal health is therefore a critical issue for all the neighboring countries in their animal husbandry.

During their mission, the Chinese visited 182 farms, collected more than 250 samples, treated 150 clinical cases, vaccinated 835 goats and administered wormers to 55,000 heads of cattle. “All of this has helped raise the level of protection for [our] livestock,” said Cheik.