Mbwa Wa Africa launches free rabies vaccination drive in Arusha
What you need to know:
- The free vaccination campaign will cover dogs of all ages and sexes. No registration is required, and owners are simply advised to bring their dogs on a leash or rope to the nearest vaccination point between 9 am and 4 pm
Arusha. A city-wide campaign offering free rabies vaccinations for dogs has been launched in Arusha in a bid to combat the deadly disease and promote responsible pet ownership.
The initiative, spearheaded by Mbwa Wa Africa Animal Rescue in collaboration with Arusha City Council, the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, and the Edgard & Cooper Foundation, will run on 3, 4, 10, and 11 May at various locations across the city.
According to Mbwa Wa Africa, Arusha is home to approximately 25,000 owned dogs, more than half of which are allowed to roam freely. The organisation warns that this practice contributes to public health threats, including the spread of rabies and other diseases, as well as increased reports of livestock attacks and human bites.
“Vaccinating dogs is not just a matter of personal responsibility; it is a matter of community safety,” said Director of Community Outreach at Mbwa Wa Africa Mr Jens Fissenebert. “When 70 percent of the dog population is vaccinated, rabies transmission can be effectively interrupted.”
Rabies remains a significant concern in Tanzania, despite being preventable. Under the Tanzanian Animal Welfare Act, all dog owners are legally obligated to keep their pets confined and ensure they are vaccinated against the disease.
The free vaccination campaign will cover dogs of all ages and sexes. No registration is required, and owners are simply advised to bring their dogs on a leash or rope to the nearest vaccination point between 9 am and 4 pm.
Designated sites include ward offices, health centres, and primary schools across Arusha, such as Kimandolu, Sakina, Sinon, Moivaro, Burka, and Kijenge, among others.
Free-roaming dogs not only pose a rabies risk but also contribute to the rising population of unwanted puppies due to uncontrolled breeding, many of whom face neglect or abandonment. Mbwa Wa Africa said the campaign also aims to raise awareness about broader issues related to animal welfare and the need for community engagement in solving them.
“Spread the word – encourage your friends, family, and neighbours to bring their dogs for free vaccination,” Mr Fissenebert added.
The campaign is part of wider efforts to create a safer and healthier environment for both humans and animals in Arusha. Organisers are calling on all dog owners to participate and help reduce the incidence of rabies and other preventable diseases.
