Veterinarians from across the Caribbean are convening in Belize for the 33rd Biennial Caribbean Veterinary Medical Association (CbVMA) conference. Hosted at the San Ignacio Hotel from March 5-7, 2024, this year’s conference focuses on the theme “One Health, One Caribbean, One Future: Veterinary Solutions Toward a Sustainable Tomorrow.”
The event encompasses a diverse range of lectures, including insights from world-renowned speakers participating in the One Health Initiative. Attendees will stay informed on animal nutrition, climate change impacts, wildlife diseases, and medicine. Interactive sessions on disaster preparedness will prepare participants for unforeseen challenges, and a holistic approach to understanding and managing burnout in Veterinary Medicine will round out the knowledge-sharing agenda.
This morning’s opening ceremony saw the presence of Hon. Jose Abelardo Mai, who emphasized the need to prioritize investments in veterinary education, services, and infrastructure. He stressed the importance of collaboration through the One Health approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Hon. Mai called for strengthened regional identity and cooperation among political, public, and private sectors to address common challenges collectively.
Minister Orlando Habet underscored the urgency for the environment sector to comprehend its crucial role in One Health and encouraged collaboration between health and agriculture sectors. He advocated for a whole-society approach to tackle threats to health and ecosystems, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental well-being.
Dr. Gongora highlighted Belize’s newfound ability to contribute to the Caribbean and emphasized the three-day event’s focus on one health, poultry, companion animals, and the well-being of veterinarians. The commitment of the Ministries of Agriculture, Health, and Environment to the One Health initiative was celebrated as a significant achievement, ensuring veterinarians receive the education needed for effective and impactful practices.
The conference serves as a platform for shared knowledge, collaboration, and commitment to building a brighter future for animal health and welfare in the Caricom and wider Caribbean region. It reflects the dedication of key ministries in setting policies and directions that empower veterinarians to excel in their crucial roles.
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