Reaching 400 people through community training sessions and providing treatment to over 800 working donkeys across three communities
In several communities across Cameroon, access to veterinary care and knowledge on animal welfare remains limited. This can make it challenging for communities to ensure consistent and adequate care for working animals, particularly donkeys.
It is within this context that the OIPA delegation in Cameroon, led by Mr. Che Gilbert Ayunwi, has been organising a series of structured training days aimed at improving the welfare of animals through practical knowledge and direct intervention.
Over recent weeks, these efforts have reached three communities, engaging approximately 400 people through six dedicated training sessions. Livestock keepers, cart owners, and community members came together in an open and participatory environment, where learning was based on dialogue, exchange, and real-life experience.
With the support of a team of 10 trained volunteers, the sessions focused on essential and practical aspects of animal care, including proper harnessing techniques to prevent injuries, wound management, basic animal healthcare, parasite control, and general welfare practices for working animals.
A key element of these training
days was their hands-on approach. Practical demonstrations were carried out directly with the animals, allowing participants to clearly understand the impact of both harmful and correct practices. Open discussions encouraged questions and shared experiences, making the sessions accessible, relevant, and immediately applicable in everyday life.
Alongside the training activities, the delegation also provided direct veterinary care. Over 800 working donkeys have already been treated, addressing common conditions such as wounds, infections, parasitic infestations, and poor body condition. For many of these animals, this represented their first access to proper care.
This integrated approach, combining education with immediate intervention, aims to create lasting change. By strengthening local capacity and raising awareness, communities are better equipped to care for their animals in a sustainable way.
Ultimately, this initiative contributes to improving both animal welfare and community well-being, fostering a more informed and responsible approach to animal care.
Through these efforts, OIPA Cameroon continues to demonstrate how targeted, community-based actions can generate meaningful and lasting impact.
