Putting transboundary animal diseases under control: The role of movement of animals and animal products surveillance, Ketu South Municipal, Volta Region, Ghana, 2020-2024

Abstract

Introduction: Cross-border movement of animals and animal products poses risk of transboundary animal diseases (TADs). The movement of animal surveillance system help to identify and prevent movement of disease animal and has the potential of reducing TADs by 40%. We analysed the movement of animals’ secondary data in Ketu South Municipality to examine the distribution of animals and animal products and to evaluate inspection outcomes. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was used to analyse surveillance data from paper-based inspection certificates on animal and animal-products movement in the Ketu South Municipality from January 2020 to December 2024. Data extracted include origin, point of entry (POE), destination, species/products, quantity and reason/purpose for movement. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, proportions were used for the analysis. Results: A total of 262 movements were inspected involving 83,187 animals with 77.5% (64,472) and 21.6% (18,000) being reptiles and day-old chicks respectively. About 10,135 tons of cowhide and 50 boxes of fish products were also moved during the period. Majority of the movements, 91.2% (239/262) originated from Togo. Majority of the movement purposes were not stated, 97.7% (256/262), stated purposes include transit, slaughter and leather works. Aflao border was the POE with highest movement 96.9% (251/259) and Kumasi was the most common destination, 55.0% (144/262). The highest movement was in 2020, 40.5% (105/259). Conclusion: Most moved animals were reptiles and products were cowhides, with majority originating from Togo. A significant gap was identified in documentation, as most movements lacked stated purposes. Aflao border emerged as the major POE, while Kumasi was the main destination. Peak movement was observed in 2020 highlighting potential trade dynamics influenced by external factors. The surveillance system should be strengthening through digitalized reporting system, training of surveillance officers and enhancing cross-border collaboration to mitigate public health risks.