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The Epidemiology and Informatics Sub-committee
The Epidemiology and Informatics Sub-committee (EIS) is one of the four committees of the SADC Livestock Technical Committee (LTC). Its formation dates back to the late 90s when the need to coordinate animal health information in the SADC region was conceived. At that time, Namibia had perhaps one of the most advanced computer systems for the management of animal health data dating back to 1985. Consequently, the Namibia Veterinary Epidemiology Unit assumed the role of managing animal health information for the region. Since its inception, the EIS has served to enhance and support this coordination role through a network of activities primarily aimed at harmonizing reporting, epidemio-surveillance and animal disease control strategies in the region.
The EIS is currently chaired by Dr. Cleopas Bamhare, head of the epidemiology unit in Namibia. Membership comprises heads of epidemiology units from the fourteen MS. Meetings are held at least once a year in different MS on a rotational basis. Resolutions and recommendations emanating from these meetings on themes pertaining to animal health are presented to the LTC for further consideration.
One of the notable achievements of the sub-committee is that through its annual meetings and other media of information exchange, the need to strengthen an early warning system for trade-sensitive animal diseases has been recognized by all SADC MS. As a result of this, disease reporting amongst MS has steadily improved over the years, thereby facilitating safe intra-regional trade in livestock and livestock products.
