By Matthew Otabe
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken a significant step towards strengthening regional animal health systems with the official handover of the premises of its Regional Animal Health Centre (RAHC) in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau.
The ceremony, held on November 6, 2026, in Alto Bandim, Bissau, featured the formal handover of keys and the signing of a transfer declaration between the ECOWAS Commission and the Government of Guinea-Bissau.
The development marks a major milestone in the relocation of the Centre and efforts to strengthen regional capacity for the prevention, surveillance and control of animal and zoonotic diseases across West Africa.
The event was attended by the Director of Administration and General Services, who represented the ECOWAS Commissioner for Internal Services; the ECOWAS Resident Representative in Guinea-Bissau; the Minister of Justice and Human Rights; and the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Other participants included government officials, members of the diplomatic community and representatives of international organisations.
Highlights of the ceremony included the cutting of the ribbon, the formal presentation of the keys and an inspection tour of the newly established facility.
ECOWAS commended the Government of Guinea-Bissau for its commitment and cooperation towards ensuring the successful establishment of the Centre.
The regional organisation also reaffirmed its commitment to developing the RAHC into a centre of excellence that will support food security, promote the One Health approach and deepen regional integration.
The establishment of the Centre is expected to strengthen collaboration among ECOWAS member states in addressing animal health challenges and mitigating the risks posed by diseases that can spread between animals and humans.
