FAO Launches Regional FMD Emergency Project in Iraq with National FMD Laboratory diagnosis techniques Training Workshop

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in close collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture of Iraq (MoA) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (MoAWR-KRI), has officially launched the regional Technical Cooperation project “Emergency control of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreaks in Iraq and Syria and prevention of its transmission to Lebanon and Jordan” .

The project officially kicked off in Erbil in the presence of  the Technical Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Dr Mithaq Al Khafaji, FAO Representative in Iraq, Salah El-Hajj Hassan, , and representative of Ministry of Agriculture and Water resources -KRG, through the launch of a five-day workshop about  “FMD Laboratory Diagnostic Techniques with a Specific Focus on the SAT-1 Serotype,” bringing together veterinary laboratory specialists from across Iraq.

Foot-and-mouth disease is a highly contagious transboundary animal disease with serious consequences for livestock production, food security, and rural livelihoods.
Preventing and controlling such diseases is a key pillar of the One Health approach, which recognizes the close interconnection between animal health, human health, and the environment. The project responds to the recent emergence of a genetically new serotype SAT-1 strain that has already been reported in many countries of the region. 

Implemented across Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan, the project aims to support government efforts to minimize FMD outbreaks through early detection, timely reporting, and coordinated response. Activities include laboratory diagnostic training, related field surveillance, electronic disease reporting systems, targeted awareness-raising activities, and the strengthening of regional coordination mechanisms and preparedness.

In parallel, refresher training on the EMA-i and EMPRES-i+ platforms will strengthen early warning and real-time outbreak notification, enabling faster and more effective responses. FAO will also train the national lab staff in the safe handling, packaging, and international shipment of infectious substances, in line with IATA regulations, enabling secure transfer of FMD samples to international reference laboratories.

Opening the workshop, senior officials underscored the importance of coordinated and timely action to address the risks posed by Foot-and-Mouth Disease.

 Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Dr Mithaq Al Khafaji, welcomed the initiative, expressing appreciation for FAO’s continued support and close coordination with national institutions. “Foot-and-Mouth Disease poses a serious threat to Iraq’s livestock sector and food security. Addressing this disease requires vigilance, precaution, and coordinated action at all stages, from early detection to response and containment. We highly value FAO’s technical support and partnership in strengthening national capacities to confront this challenge effectively.”

“By investing in laboratory skills and diagnostic infrastructure, FAO, in close cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture and all relevant national institutions, is building sustainable national capacities for the early detection of Foot-and-Mouth Disease in Iraq,” said FAO Representative in Iraq, Dr Salah El-Hajj Hassan. “We highly value the leadership, commitment, and rapid engagement of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Government of Iraq, which are essential to strengthening a One Health system that protects livestock, safeguards livelihoods, and reduces the risk of cross-border disease spread through enhanced regional coordination.”

The workshop takes place from 11 to 15 January 2026, with the participation of 13 veterinary laboratory diagnostics specialists, as part of an intensive training programme combining presentations and hands-on practical sessions. Participants are strengthening their skills in safe sampling and the use of key diagnostic techniques, with a specific focus on the SAT-1 serotype, supporting rapid decision-making during outbreak situations.

By strengthening animal health systems and regional cooperation, the initiative contributes directly to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 15 (Life on Land), supporting more resilient and sustainable agrifood systems in the region.