Burkina faso: Dr. Madi Savadogo, during his thesis defense for the Doctor of Veterinary Sciences degree from the University of Li¨ge, emphasized the need for mobilizing professionals and communities through integrative and participatory approaches to curb human rabies transmitted by dogs.
According to Burkina Information Agency, Dr. Savadogo's thesis, titled "Systemic analysis of the technical and socio-economic feasibility of the control of human rabies transmitted by domestic carnivores in Burkina Faso," presented a detailed examination of the national rabies control system. Despite existing vaccination programs and governmental initiatives, the disease persists in Burkina Faso due to fragmented interventions and deficiencies in multisectoral governance.
Dr. Savadogo's research employed a systemic and analytical framework, comprising four complementary studies. The first study evaluated the overall functioning of the rabies control system, identifying operational shortcomings and coordination issues. The second study delved into the dynamics affecting dog vaccination, pinpointing socio-economic and cultural obstacles that restrict owner participation. The third study proposed a participatory prioritization of interventions, while the final study used a reflective intervention approach to enhance control practices through multi-stakeholder engagement.
The findings of Dr. Savadogo's research indicated that rabies elimination in Burkina Faso is achievable if integrative approaches are consistently promoted in animal and public health policies. He underscored the importance of multi-criteria prioritization to build consensus around effective cross-sectoral actions.
Dr. Savadogo also highlighted the significance of the One Health approach, connecting human, animal, and environmental health to ensure sustainable and integrated interventions. He argued that participatory and integrative strategies are crucial to reinforcing prevention and safeguarding populations, while also contributing to sustainable development and the resilience of the national health system.
Following the videoconference presentation of his research, the jury, chaired by Professor Charlotte Sandersen and comprising several distinguished professors and experts, commended the scientific quality of the document and offered observations and suggestions for strengthening his work. The jury deemed the document admissible after deliberation.
Professor Zekiba Tarnagda, retired Research Director at the Institute of Health Sciences Research (IRSS), expressed his delight at Dr. Savadogo's successful defense, praising the quality of the work as a valuable contribution to the fight against rabies in Burkina Faso. Professor Tarnagda remarked that the success of this defense secures the future of veterinary science in the region.
Through his research, Dr. Madi Savadogo is making a significant academic contribution to combatting rabies in Burkina Faso.