26 August 2010 - Continuing to focus on animal health in Southern Kordofan State, the UNMIS Indian battalion organized a free veterinary camp in conjunction with the State Ministry of Animal Welfare today at Khurmali village in Dilling locality.

Local people showed up in strength at the one-day clinic, which treated 1,210 animals, including 485 cows, 370 sheep, 290 goats and 65 donkeys. A veterinary laboratory was also set up for on-the-spot screening of blood, urine and faecal samples of animals.

"There is no veterinary assistance available in the area," said local livestock owner Hyder Mohammed. "This veterinary camp was a lifeline for the owners to get their sick animals treated and get expert veterinary advice."

The Indian medical team, led by veterinary surgeon Lt. Col. Jagadish Muddappa Kadajetty, was assisted by staff from the state Ministry of Animal Welfare. The joint team also carried out disease diagnostic support, de-worming, de-ticking and vaccinations.

The camp opening was attended by national Veterinary Minister Khames Jalab Menegta, along with several state officials, including Minister of Animal Welfare Hamid Agab Mohammed, Minister of Agriculture Ali Godon El Ghali and Director General of Animal Sciences Dr. Salama Mohammed.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Menegta said, "The work of ... UNMIS in improving the livestock health in the state of South Kordofan is commendable. The present vet camp is in continuation of their effort which I had seen during my tenure as governor of the ... state two years back."

Dr. Mohammed noted that the UNMIS team and state veterinary staff would visit every payam (township) in Dilling locality over the next two weeks to conduct mass deworming, de-ticking and vaccinations. They would also teach the local population about various diseases and how to boost livestock productivity.

"Mass deworming not only reduces the parasitic burden, but also improves the condition and productivity of the animals," said Kadugli Veterinary Director Dr. Hafeez Ahmed Ibrahim. "De- ticking will prevent the external parasitic load and the spread of blood borne diseases.'

He added that weak and debilitated animals would be given liver tonics, multivitamins, mineral mixtures and appetizers to improve their health.

Local people organized several folk dances and cultural programmes to accompany the occasion.