Training in One Health & Livestock Farming Communities: Building Resilience
Empowering Champions for Sustainable Livestock & Public Health in Sierra Leone
“When we heal the animals, we heal the land. When we strengthen farmers, we strengthen our future.”
This pioneering training programme is designed to strengthen livestock farming communities in Sierra Leone by equipping them with essential One Health knowledge, practical farming skills, and public health awareness. The initiative aims to build resilient, productive, and health-secure livestock systems while empowering farmers and stakeholders to become champions of sustainable agriculture.
Organiser: Amie Bangura, CEO, Mama Afro Investment SL Limited, Sierra Leone
Partner & Sponsor: Dr Renuka Thakore, CEO, Global Sustainable Futures Network CIC, United Kingdom
Facilitator: Moise Nkurikiyumukiza, MPH, Vet, Vet Med.
Our Audience
We extend special acknowledgment to our diverse trainee groups who represent Sierra Leone’s frontline in livestock transformation and public health excellence:
- One Health and farming community members
- Influencers in the farming ecosystem
- Policy makers and regulatory experts
- Professionals and livestock cooperatives
- Farming champions, model farmers, ranchers, and pastoralists
- Large herd owners and innovative farmers
- Livestock field officers, farm extension workers, and livestock advisors
- Farmer partners and agricultural entrepreneurs
These participants are instrumental in promoting health, productivity, and profitability within their communities.
Programme Overview
The training integrates One Health principles—recognising the interconnectedness of people, animals, and the environment—with hands-on livestock management. Through expert facilitation, participants actively engage in practical demonstrations, including:
- Animal handling and restraint techniques
- Feed quality examination
- Prevention of food-borne diseases
- Mitigation of animal intoxication and environmental risks
Training Modules
Module 1: Farm-Level First Aid (Livestock Wound Management)
Managing wounds, bloating, heat stress, restraint techniques, and pain control for healthier herds.
Module 2: Disease Prevention & Biosecurity
Internal farm biosecurity measures that stop infections before they start.
Module 3: Early Intervention & Disease Detection
Recognising early disease signs to reduce losses and protect public safety.
Module 4 (Implied progression) Practical implementation of livestock interventions.
Module 5: Public Health Security, Zoonoses & Occupational Health
Understanding diseases transmitted between animals and humans, and safeguarding farmers’ wellbeing.
Why This Matters
This programme bridges knowledge gaps in the livestock sector, enhances farm profitability, and protects communities from emerging health threats. By developing skilled livestock leaders, we pave the way for a resilient agricultural economy aligned with Sustainable Development Goals and One Health principles.
FUNDRAISING
We are currently fundraising to support this life-changing educational programme, ensuring that livestock farmers and young champions across Sierra Leone can access this training at no cost. Many of these communities lack the resources, infrastructure, and opportunities needed to protect their livestock and improve their livelihoods. Your contribution will help us provide training materials, expert facilitation, and practical demonstrations that equip participants with essential skills in animal care, disease prevention, and public health. By supporting this initiative, you are not just donating—you are investing in healthier animals, stronger communities, and a more resilient future for Sierra Leone’s farming families.