The Veterinary Services Department of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has commenced a nationwide free vaccination campaign targeting 25,000 dogs and cats in identified high-risk areas.
The initiative forms part of activities marking World Rabies Month 2026, being observed under the theme “Stronger Together.”
The campaign is aimed at supporting Ghana’s commitment to achieving zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030. According to the Directorate, vaccination will be free throughout September 2026, after which prescribed fees will apply.
Rabies is a vaccine-preventable viral disease that occurs in more than 150 countries, including Ghana, and claims tens of thousands of lives every year, mainly in Asia and Africa.
Children are particularly vulnerable, accounting for about 40 percent of rabies-related deaths among those under 15 years. Dogs are responsible for approximately 99 percent of rabies transmissions to humans, making dog vaccination a key preventive measure.
Speaking at the launch, the FAO Representative, Dr. Ahmed Gariba, urged the public to avoid stray or unfamiliar dogs and seek immediate medical attention after any dog bite or suspected exposure.
The WHO Representative, Dr. Sally-Ann Ohene, said strong collaboration among communities and stakeholders will be critical to the success of the campaign.
On her part, the Deputy Director of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Madam Patience Esi Boni-Morkla, said government will continue working with the Veterinary Services Directorate, Ghana Health Service, MMDAs, traditional and religious authorities, development partners and other stakeholders to strengthen rabies prevention and control.
The authorities are therefore urging dog owners in high-risk communities to present their dogs for vaccination and to ensure that their pets receive regular rabies vaccinations.
The Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO), Dr. Emmanuel Allegye-Cudjoe, also called on MMDAs, civil society organisations, religious and traditional authorities, development partners and the private sector to support the campaign with vaccines, logistics, public education and community mobilisation.
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Ghana|Atinkaonline.com|Esther Opoku
