The Global Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) Control Strategy was developed under the FAO/OIE Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases (GF-TADs) in 2012. The FAO/OIE Global FMD Control Strategy, a fifteen-year program, supports FMD-endemic countries to reduce the burden and impact of FMD by building adequate laboratory and surveillance systems, strengthening veterinary service capacities, supporting quality-controlled vaccination programs and creating possibilities to control other priority animal diseases through practical and cost-effective combinations of activities.

The Global FMD Control Strategy emphasizes the importance of a regional approach to exchange information and experiences, coordinate efforts and develop regional roadmaps showing the country’s ambitions and allowing regular progress assessment. Therefore, to progress on FMD control, coordinated and cohesive efforts at global, regional and national level are of paramount importance. The participation of regional organizations/partners in the Global Coordination Committee on FMD (GCC-FMD) will make it possible for the replication of success from one region to another through the exchange of ideas, strategies and resources. To facilitate the implementation of the FAO/OIE Global FMD Control Strategy, establishment of a GCC-FMD is proposed with the below objectives.

Objectives

1. Share global/regional/national/organizational initiatives on FMD control, achievements and lessons learned
2. Facilitate coordination and alignment of the regional and country programs with the global strategy to achieve significant impacts for endemic and free countries
3. Review and analyze the progress of the global strategy and regional programs to develop a harmonized 5-year action plan
4. Provide regular updates on the progress of FMD control initiatives and prompt the strategy among the relevant stakeholders
5. Provide a platform to liaise with development partners for advocacy and resource mobilization
6. Provide a platform for exchange of information and needs on FMD

Expected outcomes

1. Better understanding of FMD dynamics and control strategies/initiatives at global, regional and national levels
2. Enhanced coordination and communication among the stakeholders to implement the global FMD control strategy for significant impact
3. Harmonized action plan for next phase of the global FMD control strategy developed
4. Resources mobilized for implementation of the global strategy through engagement and advocacy with development partners and stakeholders.