Review of current problems and shortcomings in the Tanzanian animal health information system with suggestions on improvement

KIVARIA, F.M. & KAPAGA, A.M . 2002. Review of current problems and shortcomings in the Tan­ zanian animal health information system with suggestions on improvement. Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research, 69:305-314 Livestock diseases have always been the focus of the Tanzanian Veterinary Authorities. However, they have become more important since the formation of the World Trade Organisation and subse­ quent implementation of the various multilateral agreements on trade. There is also a strong politi­ cal desire to improve the animal health status as part of poverty alleviation strategies. As a result there is a need to develop better systems for investigating and reporting of animal diseases. In order to follow the OlE pathway and to obtain a disease free status, reliable evidence of freedom from par­ ticular diseases is becoming an issue of major interest. Assessment of the Tanzanian animal health information system revealed two major problems; firstly , the absence of disease information that accurately reflects the health status of the source population, and secondly, an inefficient informa­ tion management system which is unable to provide useful information on the spatial component of animal health. A strategic approach is proposed that involves the collection of animal health infor­ mation using active surveillance techniques and the introduction of a geographic information system. This approach should improve the management and reporting of animal health information.