By: Kebba Ansu Manneh
Dr. Kebba Daffeh, President of the Gambia Veterinary Medical Association (GVMA), has lauded the introduction of a Bachelor’s Degree program in Veterinary Science at the University of The Gambia (UTG) as a transformative milestone for both the institution and the nation.
In an exclusive interview with The Alkamba Times (TAT), Dr. Daffeh described the development as a “landmark achievement,” emphasizing the urgent need for veterinary scientists in a country with only three qualified professionals currently employed by the government.
The launch of the Veterinary Science program marks the first time since UTG’s establishment in 1999 that the university will offer specialized degree programs in animal sciences. “This is a monumental step towards training homegrown veterinarians,” Dr. Daffeh noted, highlighting the program’s potential to address Gambia’s severe shortage of veterinary expertise. The initiative is a critical response to the country’s challenges in the livestock sector, particularly in rural areas where veterinarians are scarce.
Gambia’s veterinary sector has long faced a crisis-level shortage of qualified professionals, with the lack of local training opportunities exacerbating the issue. The absence of veterinarians, especially at the regional level, has hindered the sustainable development of the livestock industry, which plays a vital role in the country’s economy and food security. Dr. Daffeh emphasized that training veterinary doctors locally is the most sustainable solution to bridge this gap, ensuring that both the public and private sectors are adequately served.
The establishment of the Veterinary Science program at UTG is the result of years of advocacy by various stakeholders, including the GVMA, academic institutions, and civil society organizations. Dr. Daffeh thanked the Vice Chancellor of UTG and the Head of the School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences for their leadership in bringing this vision to fruition. He also commended members of the GVMA for their willingness to contribute their expertise to the new Veterinary School, ensuring its success in training the next generation of veterinarians.
The collaborative effort behind this achievement extends beyond academia. Dr. Daffeh acknowledged the pivotal role played by National Assembly Members, who have shown a strong commitment to addressing capacity gaps in veterinary medicine. Their support has been instrumental in prioritizing the development of the livestock sector within national policy frameworks.
Additionally, media outlets such as The Alkamba Times and QTV were recognized for amplifying the call for in-country veterinary training, raising public awareness, and sustaining momentum for the initiative.
Civil society organizations, including the Future Vets Association and the Horse and Donkey Trust, were also praised for their advocacy efforts. These groups have worked tirelessly to highlight the importance of veterinary education and its impact on animal health, agricultural productivity, and rural livelihoods. Their contributions, combined with the efforts of other institutions, have culminated in the establishment of the Veterinary Science program, which is expected to produce graduates equipped to address the Gambia’s unique veterinary challenges.
The program’s introduction is crucial for The Gambia, where the livestock sector is becoming increasingly vital to economic growth and food security. With only three government-employed veterinary scientists, the country has struggled to meet the needs of its growing agricultural and animal husbandry industries. The new degree program is poised to train a new cadre of professionals who can serve both urban and rural communities, improving animal health, reducing disease transmission, and boosting livestock productivity.
Dr. Daffeh’s remarks reflect a broader optimism about the program’s potential to transform Gambia’s veterinary landscape. By fostering local expertise, the initiative aligns with national development goals, reducing reliance on foreign-trained professionals and building a sustainable workforce. The GVMA, in collaboration with UTG and other partners, is committed to ensuring the program’s success through ongoing support and knowledge-sharing.
As the University of The Gambia embarks on this historic endeavor, the nation looks forward to a future where skilled, locally trained professionals meet its veterinary needs. The Veterinary Science program represents an academic milestone and a beacon of hope for Gambia’s livestock sector and rural communities, paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous agricultural future.
