OTTAWA, ON (September 13, 2022) – In response to the devastating floods in Pakistan that, according to the UN, have affected more than 33 million people and killed more than 800,000 farm animals, Veterinarians Without Borders (VWB) has partnered with Sangtani Women Rural Development Organization (SWRDO) to support women and families who have lost their animals and so much more. Record monsoon rains and rapidly melting glaciers in the area, caused by extreme weather patterns, have created these catastrophic floods, which will continue to increase food insecurity, water-borne illness, and poverty throughout the region.
“Animals are incredibly important for the livelihoods of people throughout the devastated Pakistani regions and beyond,” said Charmaine Brett, Executive Director of VWB. “Rural women, in particular, depend on agriculture and farm animals for their daily needs, including dairy, meat, and as a source of income. By teaming up with SWRDO to provide on-the-ground support, we can work with affected community members and families to ensure their remaining animals, including chickens, ducks, goats, sheep, buffalo, cows, and camels, are evacuated to safer places and kept healthy,” said Brett. “This funding will not only help to secure nourishment and income for families, but also help to replace animals that have been lost due to the catastrophic flooding."
This partnership highlights VWB’s commitment to the One Health approach, which seeks to create sustainable, healthy environments for humans and animals across the globe. It also emphasizes VWB’s focus on ensuring that women in rural settings, who often depend on livestock for income generation, have access to farm animals and agricultural training. In turn, this will help to strengthen families and communities. As climate emergencies become more prevalent across the globe, it will be crucial to create solutions that support those who are most impacted by extreme weather events.
Learn more about helping families and animals in need.
Media Contact
Charmaine Brett, Executive Director
E: charmaine@vetswithoutborders.ca
C: +1-613-880-1655
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