The WSAVA AFSCAN Project: 5th Anniversary of a successful network in Africa

Abstract

The Foundation of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) began the African Small Companion Animal Network (AFSCAN) project in 2014 with the support of Zoetis and numerous other commercial and Association supporters. AFSCAN was borne of recognition of the need for  support and capacity-building for the African small companion animal veterinary community. The countries currently participating in the AFSCAN project are Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda. Small Animal Associations are now being established in the AFSCAN member  countries. AFSCAN further offers online education to member countries on small companion animal practice. Nevertheless, face-to-face continuing education is also provided by the WSAVA Continuing Education Committee. Member countries have also participated in the rabies Control activities. The clinical research and mobility awards which currently are worthy of US$ 60,000) have been provided to institutions in Kenya, Nigeria and  Tanzania, and seven undergraduate scholarships to veterinary students in Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda. Four BSAVA and four NAVC AFSCAN International Scholarships have been awarded to attend the annual BSAVA and VMX congresses in the UK and Florida. A new  programme that will ‘twin’ veterinarians and veterinary practices in Africa with partners in the USA and Europe will commence shortly. With support  from Bayer Animal Health and Idexx Laboratories a major new AFSCAN research programme on canine and feline ectoparasites and arthropod-borne infectious diseases is about to commence.

Key words: AFSCAN, WSAVA, companion animals, veterinary practices