CHAIRMAN: Yesterday, you heard the introduction of the agenda item we are discussing, that is the Programme for Control of African Animal Trypanosomiasis. Before I give the floor to delegates I should like to call on the Independent Chairman of the Council.
BUKAR SHAIB (Independent Chairman of the Council): Together with all the other proposals submitted to the various Commissions, the one that is before you has been considered by the Council and its Committees and forwarded to the Conference for adoption.
African Animal Trypanosomiasis, as its name implies, is confined to Africa, to tropical Africa, so it is a disease, as you saw on the map yesterday, that prevents rural development in vast areas. As Dr. Mussman said yesterday, it is not a new problem. FAO had been involved with it for a long time, and before independence, before 1960, the colonial powers in Africa, the French, the British, the Belgians were also involved in the control of trypanosomiasis, and since independence all the African countries which are affected by the disease have been taking measures to control the disease, with the former colonial powers together with others like the United States and the Federal Republic of Germany assisting the efforts of the individual African countries in trying to control the disease.
The tsetse fly does not respect any international borders. Therefore, the efforts being made by the various countries, assisted by the donors and FAO and WHO, are not producing the desired results in the way that they should. Therefore, during the World Food Conference in 1974 to which Dr. Mussman referred, FAO was entrusted with the task of drawing up a long-term programme to coordinate the control and, if possible, the eradication of the tsetse fly so that rural development can take place in those parts of Africa that are affected. As Dr. Mussman said yesterday, there have been very long preparations for the past five years which have culminated in the proposals that are now before you.
The Council has been involved at all stages, through the Programme Committee especially, and COAG, during the preparatory stage. Now we have reached a stage when the proposals have got to a point where practical measures can be taken.
The idea is to coordinate the efforts of individual countries and the donors in such a way that in the long run the disease can be controlled. Certain measures are necessary for this, and these measures were outlined by the Secretariat and by Dr. Mussman yesterday, and in the documents that you have before you, and I am sure that all those who are concerned, the former colonial powers which have the expertise and manpower which have been involved in it, and the new ones like the United States and Germany which also have, scientific expertise which is now being used, will cooperate with the African countries to evolve a long-term programme which can be supported and implemented in the long run.
J. O. ALABI (Nigeria): We congratulate the Secretariat on Document C 79/29 outlining the programme for the control of African Animal Trypanosomiasis. We also thank Dr. Mussman for his very excellent introduction of the programme. Efforts to control African Animal Trypanosomiasis started several years ago. A resolution at the World Food Conference in 1974 called on the FAO "to launch, as a matter of urgency, a long-term programme for the control of African Animal Trypanosomiasis as a project of high priority". The Nineteenth Session of the FAO Conference, recognizing the serious constraint to animal production and agricultural development imposed by the occurrence of the disease, emphasized the importance of this Organization as a forum for the elaboration of a plan which would embrace all the affected areas of Africa, and requested the Director-General to continue his efforts to prepare and submit such a plan.
The 10th FAO National Conference for Africa in Arusha last year strongly supported FAO's action programme and recommended that it should be vigorously pursued and be given high priority in the Programme of Work and Budget.
The leader of my delegation in his country statement mentioned the serious consequences of tsetse flies on the production of livestock and general agricultural development in tropical Africa. The trypanosomes which the flies transmit cause sleeping sickness in man and trypanosomiasis in animals. A look at table 1 in appendix A of the paper shows that of the total area of 21. 4 million square kilometres in 36 tsetse infested countries in Africa, South of Sahara, about 9-10 million square milometres or about one half of the land area is infested by tsetse. In Nigeria, area infested is more than sixty percent. The areas presently infested by tsetse which offer potential for livestock and crop production is estimated to be 6-7 million square kilometres. Table 2 of the Appendix shows the progress in the reclamation. Out of 2. 8 million square kilometres originally infested in countries where reclamation had been done, only 295 thousand square kilometres or a little over 10 percent had been reclaimed. A quarter of the area originally infested in my Country had been reclaimed. But the sad thing about the whole picture is that even this small percentage of reclaimed area gets re-infested because not all countries are carrying out reclamation work.
As indicated in the paper, the widespread occurence of animal trypanosomiasis imposes serious constraints to animal production and general agricultural development in Africa. It is estimated that there is an increase of about 120 million head of cattle in areas cleared of tsetse.
We support the objectives of the programme which apart from the control of the disease and its vector, also includes support for the planning and implementation of sound programmes for land use and rural development in areas selected for the application of control measures. The programme envisages a long-term strategy for the control of tsetse and animal trypanosomiasis taking into consideration the environmental and social political considerations. The implementation of the proposed activities will eventually have a major impact on rural development and will lead to an improvement in the quality of life of the people of Africa.
Several control methods are available but we will urge that research should be intensified on the production of vaccine to be used against trypanosomiasis. When there is a break through in the production of effective vaccine, more than half of the problem would have been solved.
Up to $ 350 million has been expended on various projects connected with the control of trypanosomiasis through national, bilateral and multilateral sources. We are most grateful to donors for their assistance. The programme proposed by FAO will therefore not begin from scratch but will be designed to bring full coordination to the diverse activities and to build on them to achieve the desired objective. We wish to stress at this point the need for cooperation by various national Governments to ensure the success of the programme. Unless adjoining states cooperate, success will be difficult to achieve because areas cleared of infestation in one country could become re-infested if there is no similar programme in the adjoining states.
We are happy to note that $ 1. 5 million had been allocated in 1980/81 budget for this programme. We however see this allocation as seed money which will be used for attracting funds from other sources. We are sure National Governments concerned will provide funds in their budgets but we also rely on the goodwill of bilateral and multilateral donors to ensure adequate financing.
In order to ensure the effective coordination of activities and to provide for active participation by all concerned in the conduct of both control and development activities of the Programme, we wish to sponsor a resolution for the establishment of a "Commission on African Animal Trypanosomiasis". The text of the resolution has been circulated in document C 79/LIM/42. The Commission will give member Nations an opportunity to express their views and to give advice on the planning and execution of the Programme. Membership will be open to Member Nations which are affected by African animal trypanosomiasis which have active interest in or give support to the Programme. The Commission will advise on policies to be adopted in planning and execution of the Programme; appraise progress made; review action plans for the programme; review the funding for the programme; and advise on the use of FAO trust funds established to support the Programme. The Commission will meet once every biennium. National Governments participating will be required to establish a national multi disciplinary tsetse and trypanosomiasis body for coordinating technical, social, budgetary and logistic support as well as for the development of tsetse-free areas. We very strongly urge this Conference to adopt the resolution and we humbly call on donor countries to donate generously to the trust fund established to support the programme. We are happy to note in this connexion that very positive reaction has been obtained to initial contact by FAO with some donors.
D. C. P. EVANS (United Kingdom): I would like to join with the Nigerian delegate in thanking the Secretariat for the presentation of this paper, and particularly to Dr. Mussman for his very interesting talk last night despite the trouble with the electricity.
The paper on the "Programme for the Control of African Animal Trypanosomiasis and Related Development" is one of the more detailed papers we have seen, but as such, unless one has a clear understanding of the technical background in all its aspects it could be considerably confusing. It is, however, one of the better papers from FAO and relatively short. Considering the scope of the work, it does summarize the position well. We have no quarrel at all with it. For the first time FAO comes out clearly and recognizes its role as a coordinating body for both bilateral and multilateral efforts in control of tsetse/trypanosomiasis in Africa. Our concern about this paper arises from the fact that FAO is approaching the whole very complex problem on a very wide front. The control methods currently possible are the only real approaches available, plus the use of chemotherapy, which is only satisfactory in certain restricted situations. FAO has directed its efforts over the last 5 years to developing discussions with experts, a complex training programme for African workers, and supporting certain research lines. These approaches are unexceptionable and had to be carried out, but progress has been slow and based on the current Conference paper, will continue more or less at that pace. The recommendations in the current paper cause some doubts, particularly as regards timing, whether adequate sums will become available and the very width of the project, in which the tsetse control side will be a relatively small part of the overall inputs. The regional and local support teams which will cost more than $ 40 million at present day prices over 4 years are largely made up on a wide multi-disciplinary basis. It is proposed to work in the twelve various areas in Africa which have signified they would like to join the FAO programme.
In our view the whole organization will become so complex and diffuse, both subjectwise and geographically, that progress will be slow and costs obviously will be high. We suggest the only alternative is for an initial phase of 5 years at least, in which FAO will prove and refine its approach on a relatively restricted geographical basis in carefully defined areas. It is suggested that the pure tsetse control aspects should receive a restricted approach and treatment, while the wider multi-disciplinary needs of pasture development range control, economic and sociological aspects, and animal production, should be treated in parallel, but as separate projects. The latter have a developing side which follows initial control.
We suggest attempting to coordinate from Rome is wrong, and probably an FAO organisation set-up in conjunction with OAU, STRC and IBAR within Africa would be the best approach. It is essential that the whole operation is carried out in close conjunction with the countries concerned, and Rome is far too distant.
As to reasons for the current lack of progress it is that the major consultations and FAO experts are in Rome, and they only make visits to Africa for periodic meetings. It is suggested that consideration should be given to having one or more coordinating units on the ground in Africa dealing with a specific area. It is noted that FAO has proposed a donor meeting in Rome in 1980, and we intend to be there, but as far as finances are concerned we may however have to take the approach which was adopted extremely successfully in our input to the OAU Rinderpest Commission, JP15, a few years ago.
As regards the costings at the back of the paper, it has not been made clear who will pay for the various schemes, and it may have to be left to the bilateral and multilateral agencies. It is apparent, however, that the costs will not be light.
While making some broad observations on the paper I wish to reaffirm that the United Kingdom will support the Programme and it again congratulates FAO on the progress which has been made in the field, and which enables the utilization of vast areas of Africa for livestock production and also makes possible the utilization of such areas for agriculture and other forms of general development.
P. HALIMI (France): Je voudrais tout d'abord remercier le Directeur de la Division de la Production et de la Santé animale de sa présentation du sujet et des diapositives impressionnantes qu'il nous a permis de voir hier après-midi.
La délégation française a déjà eu l'occasion, tant en séance pionière que dans cette Commission, d'exprimer sa satisfaction de voir la. lutte contre la trypanosomiase animale figurer parmi les grandes priorités du Programme de travail de l'OΑΑ. Depuis le début du siècle, ainsi que l'a rappelé notamment le Président indépendant du Conseil, Mr. Bukar Shaib, la France a pris conscience de l'importance des pertes de toute nature provoquées par cette maladie, et de leur répercussion sur l'économie et le niveau de vie des Etats d'Afrique tropicale, de nombreux chercheurs français, vétérinaires, médecins, entomologistes, ont largement contribué à la mise au point des techniques de lutte actuellement disponibles et
des équipes françaises ont organisé diverses campagnes de lutte, tant contre la maladie que contre le vecteur. Il n'est donc pas étonnant que la France figure parmi les cosignataires de la Résolution adoptée par la Conférence mondiale de 1 alimentation en 1974 sur la lutte contre la trypanosondase, et que les délégations françaises, tant à la Conférence qu'au Conseil de l'OAA aient apporté leur soutien sans réserve aux initiatives prises par le Directeur général pour développer le programme de lutte contre la trypanosomiase et lui accorder une place de choix dans le Programme général de travail de cette Organisation. La France ne s'est cependant pas contentée d'apporter un appui de principe au Programme. Elle a poursuivi ses activités traditionnelles dans le cadre de l'assistance bilatérale en particulier les recherches sur la lutte génétique contre la Tsé-tsé et la trypanotolérance, ou la formation de personnel. L'effort français de recherche et de lutte dans ce domaine est important et il doit être pris en considération. C'est ainsi que les crédits de recherche et de formation, affectés à un certain nombre de projets mis sur pied en Afrique de l'Ouest, et particulièrement en République voltaîque, atteignent pour la période de mars 1974 à fin 1979, près de 30 millions de francs.
D'autre part, les conventions passées avec l'Institut d'élevage et de médecine vétérinaire des pays tropicaux se montent à sept millions de francs.
Il convient en outre de remarquer que ces chiffres n'impliquent pas la part de l'aide française au système de fonctionnement de certains services vétérinaires africains, ni la participation à des opérations de développement rural concernant ces questions. La France a tout naturellement tenu à coopérer étroitement à la réalisation de la phase préparatoire du Programme entrepris sous l'égide de l'OAA. C'est ainsi que plusieurs spécialistes français ont été mis à la disposition de l'OAA pour réaliser ce programme, assurer des études, diriger des projets, ou participer à des réunions techniques ou des séminaires de formation.
Par l'intermédiaire de l'IEMVT auquel le délégué du Royaume-Uni faisait allusion tout à l'heure, la France s'est associée à l'OAA et à la République fédérale d'Allemagne pour conduire des cours de spécialisation de haut niveau, et elle participe au Service d'information sur les glassines et les trypanosomiases, récemment établi en coopération entre l'OAA, l'OMS, l'OUA et le Royaume-Uni. Nous insistons tout particulièrement, comme le Royaume-Uni, sur la coopération en cette matière avec l'OUA. Conjointement avec la République fédérale d'Allemagne et l'OAA, la France a accepté en 1976 de participer à la formation du personnel africain francophone appelé à intervenir dans les actions de lutte contre la trypanosomiase.
Le projet adopté comporte deux volets: 1- Organisation par l'IEMVT d'un cycle de formation de spécialistes de la lutte contre les trypanosomiases animales d'une durée de six mois; quatre mois de cours théoriques et d'enseignement des techniques de laboratoire en France; deux mois de travaux de terrain, à Bobo-Dioulasso en Haute-Volta; ce stage de haut niveau intéresse une dizaine de docteurs vétérinaires, de docteurs en médecine ou licenciés en sciences, présentés par les pays intéressés. Ce cycle de formation a lieu tous les deux ans.
2- Création à Bobo-Dioulasso d'un Centre inter-Etats de formation des agents de terrain s'adressant aux agents techniques de l'élevage ou aux infirmiers vétérinaires. Le Centre accueille chaque année vingt élèves francophones; la formation, essentiellement pratique, dure un an et comporte une formation de terrain et une formation théorique. Les crédits mis à la disposition de cette activité de formation représentent jusqu'à 1982 un coût de l'ordre de 1 330 000 francs.
A cet effort financier s'ajoutent, ainsi que je l'ai déjà signalé, l'aide au soutien de certains services vétérinaires ou sa participation dans des opérations de développement rural concernant ces questions.
Ces exemples montrent combien fructueuse a été la coopération entre l'OAA et diverses institutions d'assistance bilatérale permettant la réalisation de la phase préparatoire du programme dans les délais prévus.
Le programme de lutte contre la trypanosomiase, ainsi que le décrit le document de synthèse préparé par le Secrétariat, va entrer dans sa phase opérationnelle. La délégation française a relevé avec beaucoup de satisfaction la part que ce document attribue au développement rationnel des zones assainies. C'est un point important sur lequel on n'insistera jamais assez. Il n'est en effet pas douteux que l’eradication complète de cette affection demande la mise en place de projets de développement intégrés, faisant appel à d'importants moyens financiers - le délégué du Royaume-Uni a souligné ce point qui est très important - et agents d'encadrement sur un nombre important d'années. La spécialisation des chercheurs et agents d'intervention français regroupés à l'Institut d'élevage et de médecine vétérinaire des pays tropicaux ne demande qu'à s'exercer dans des structures de l'OAA.
Nous avons également noté la nécessité d'utiliser toutes les méthodes disponibles et nous sommes particulièrement heureux de voir la place que tiennent les méthodes non chimiques, telle que la lutte génétique contre les tsé-tsé ou l'élevage du bétail trypanotolérant, méthodes que les chercheurs français ont grandement contribué à promouvoir.
Pour conclure la délégation française tient à féliciter le Directeur général et ses collaborateurs pour l'excellent travail déjà accompli.
La France est vivement désireuse de poursuivre et d'intensifier sa coopération avec le Programme de lutte contre la tryponasomiase; et en particulier elle souhaite participer activement aux divers organismes de coordination et de gestion qui devraient être établis à la suite de cette réunion. C'est pourquoi la création souhaitée d'une commission visée au document C 79/LIM/42 est la bienvenue; d'autant qu'une commission permanente n'entraîne au demeurant aucune dépense non prévue au budget de l'OΑΑ. C'est pourquoi ma délégation apporte son plein appui au projet de résolution présenté par la délégation du Nigeria.
NGA MA MAPELA (Zaïre): Pour commencer, ma délégation voudrait approuver mot à mot la déclaration qu'a faite ce matin le Dr. Bukar Shaib en sa qualité de Président indépendant du Conseil. Nous remercions et félicitons le Secrétariat pour la qualité du document que nous discutons. Tout comme pour les autres documents présentés à cette Conférence, le document C 79/29 est à notre avis aussi clair que concis. Ma délégation félicite le Dr. Mussman et tous ses collaborateurs pour les efforts qu'ils déploient au Siège comme sur le terrain pour tenter de solutionner le problème de la trypanosomiase animale en Afrique.
Le Document traite d'un problème crucial qui se pose au niveau d'une quarantaine d'Etats Membres de cette Organisation. Et il va de soi que la solution plus ou moins durable à ce problème dépendra de beaucoup de la position que va adopter notre Conférence au sujet des propositions faites dans le document et au sujet du projet de résolution qui est soumis à ce propos. En ce qui concerne ma délégation, tout en appuyant les méthodes de lutte et l'approche adoptée pour le développement des régions touchées par le fléau nous tenons à apporter notre plein appui à l'idée exprimée au paragraphe 21 du document, à savoir la nécessité de renforcer le Programme FAO de lutte contre la trypanosomiase animale africaine, au moyen d'un apport important de ressources financières et techniques pour les activités futures et à long terme de ce Programme.
Pour ce qui est de la stratégie à long terme qu'il convient d'adopter, ma délégation exprime son plein appui aux propositions formulées par le Secrétariat à cet effet; à savoir notamment la création d'une commission de la trypanosomiase animale africaine et traitant aussi du rôle de coordination que la FAO doit jouer dans ce domaine. Nous appuyons sans réserve aucune le projet de résolution contenu dans le document et présenté par le délégué du Nigéria.
M. ZJALIC: (Yugoslavia): Thank you for giving me the floor. My delegation gives its full support to the Programme for the control of African Animal Trypanosomiasis. We compliment the Secretariat for preparing the Doc. C 79/ 29 also Dr. Mussman for giving us excellent and clear information about this problem. We give our full support to the long term strategy as outlined in the Document and endorse the organizational structure in the role of FAO. We consider this Programme to be of great importance for the elimination of constraint to the animal production, agricultural and rural development in affected countries. We also highly appreciate the approach and methods supplied in the first phase of the Programme as a useful model which might be applicable in solving other problems within the FAO activities.
My delegation is pleased to note the interest of the independent chairman of the Council in this issue, and hope that his activity will contribute to the satisfactory fulfilment of this Programme.
We also express our support to the draft resolution in Doc. C 79/LIM/43.
K. BINGANA (Botswana): As this is my first intervention since you took the chair I would there fore like to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your election.
The Botswana Delegation has read document C 79/29 with great interest because it deals with a topic under discussion at the present time in our Government. Even though FAO's long term goal is tsetse fly and trypanosomaisis control Botswana's short term objective is tsetse fly eradication to be followed by an adequate monitoring programme to prevent reinfestation.
Tsetse control in Botswana dates back some thirty years using the more conventional methods. In 1973 a programme of aerial spraying with tsetse specific chemicals was introduced and since then the tsetse infested area has been pushed back by approximately twenty-five percent. Two years ago we proved that eradication is possible, so complete eradication is programmed for the early 1980's. This is one of projects catered for in the fifth plan period which began this year.
Before eradication is undertaken, a complete land use programme is being planned between central government and the local authorities to ensure proper phasing of new land use activities in the cleared area. After eradication there will be a marginal increase in cattle numbers, allowances will be made for more arable production but major attention will be given to protect existing wildlife, and care will be taken to minimize possible destruction to the fragile ecology of the delta area. Botswana is in a unique situation of having its tsetse infested area of 30 000 km2 in a concentrated but small part of the total land area. The Okovango delta is surrounded by semi-arid savannah so reinfestation is likely through a relatively small corridor thus monitoring against possible reinfestation is physically and economically feasible.
We recognize that the initial investment will be large but are confident that the economic and social pay-off through increased financial returns and decreased human suffering will be great. Recurrent expenditure to the government will be greatly reduced because the annual spraying requirements will be small and in addition new productive activities can be introduced in the cleared areas. Monitoring and control against reinfestation will be enhanced through coopération with our neighbouring countries Namibia and Zambia.
Before concluding my remarks I would like to raise a couple of questions about the introduction of try-panotolerant cattle. First if they are introduced to new areas and are crossbred with existing breeds do they not lose their tolerance? Second are these cattle as productive as other breeds in terms of growth and quality of beef production? Botswana does not envisage introduction of this breed because we plan to eradicate the tsetse fly but I raise these questions out of general interest.
Botswana may be one of the first countries in Africa to eradicate tsetse fly, but plans to cooperate with FAO in its efforts and will be willing to share its knowledge with other countries if requested.
R. CARLIER (Belgique): Je voudrais tout d'abord remercier le Secrétariat pour la documentation et l'exposé de M. Mossman qui nous explique clairement ce problème. Nous félicitons la FAO, l'OUA, l'OMS et les institutions internationales pour leurs efforts coordonnés dans la phase préparatoire qui a ouvert plusieurs perspectives pour l'accroissement de la production animale en Afrique.
Ma délégation voudrait quand même plaider en faveur de l'approche la plus réaliste possible. Il est primordial que dans la formulation des programmes et des projets, on cherche des méthodes simples et efficaces. Bien sûr, la méthode de lutte contre la trypanosomiase sera essentiellement différente suivant les milieux écologiques, mais la méthode choisie devrait tenir compte étroitement des habitudes et des coutumes de l'élevage traditionnel.
L'introduction d'un système trop sophistiqué aurait deux inconvénients: - d'abord, le coût de l'opération se révélerait trop important dans le cadre d'un budget réaliste?
- Ensuite, on aurait peu de chance d'être compris et suivi à long terme par des éleveurs dans la protection et dans le traitement de la maladie.
Pour donner un exemple, prenons comme milieu écologique la zone des forêts en Afrique centrale et de l'Ouest; en considérant les premières études déjà réalisées, et en se plaçant dans le milieu dispersé de l'élevage tel qu'il est pratiqué dans cette zone, il est probable que la meilleure solution s'oriente vers l'introduction de bétail trypanotolérant plutôt que vers la chimiothérapie, applicable surtout dans les grands ranches.
La Belgique, grâce à sa longue expérience en Afrique centrale, dispose d'un potentiel scientifique ap-préciable, particulièrement grâce à l'Institut de médecine tropicale et sa Division vétérinaire. Elle a envoyé des spécialistes à plusieurs consultations techniques de la FAO, au Laboratoire international de recherches sur les maladies animales, ainsi qu'au Centre international de l'élevage pour l'Afrique.
Notre intention serait d'intervenir dans des projets intégrée de développement rural pour y adjoindre une cellule de formation et d'action spécialisée dans la lutte contre la trypanosomiase et adaptée aussi étroitement que possible aux conditions locales de l'élevage.
Nous aimerions aussi intervenir dans le sens d'un renforcement des laboratoires vétérinaires.
Nous adoptons cette disposition d'insertion d'une cellule dans un projet plus vaste de développement parce que nous gardons présent à l'esprit que le but final de l'opération est le développement rural, le lutte contre la trypanosomiase n'étant que l'un des moyens pour en assurer le succès.
Pour conclure, nous approuvons la proposition du Directeur général pour que la FAO joue le rôle de coordinateur de ce vaste programme et qu'elle organise dans ce cadre une Commission de la lutte contre la trypanosomiase.
La Belgique ne manquera pas de contribuer à ces efforts; en attendant, elle appuie pleinement le projet de résolution proposé par la Commission.
P. D. TANOE (côte-d'Ivoire): Notre délégation voudrait adresser ses félicitations au Secrétariat pour la qualité du document produit et la présentation qui a été faite par le Dr. Mussman. L'on pourrait s'étonner que la Côte-d'Ivoire, qui n'est pas connue pour la réalisation de performances, en matière d'élevage, s'intéresse au problême de la lutte contre la trypanosomiase. C'est en fait au-delà de toute autre considération que la CÔte-d'Ivoire a un problème de qualité de son alimentation; et singulièrement, les deux tiers de nos denrées animales nous viennent de l'extérieur. Bien sûr, ceci n'est pas un mal en soi mais il faut considérer aussi l'accroissement rapide de la demande intérieure qui évolue à un rythme de 7% par an et les pays frères voisins ont de plus en plus de mal à répondre à notre demande, ce qui nous conduit à nous tourner vers d'autres continents. A l'Horizon 2000, notre population aura doublé. La Côte-d'Ivoire ambitionne de couvrir ses besoins pour 80% en développant la production nationale avec, notamment, le projet de développement de l'élevage en région forestière. Ceci devrait impliquer aussi la lutte contre la trypanosomiase. Dans cette optique, nous avons déjà entrepris une action de lutte contre la trypanosomiase au niveau national, dans le nord de la Côte-d'Ivoire, sous la coordination de la FAO, que nous tenons remercier.
Notre ambition est d'étendre le projet à tout le territoire national. Dans ce contexte nous aimerions pouvoir compter sur l'appui de la FAO, et de tous les pays amis. Nous aimerions pouvoir continuer à compter aussi sur le PNUD, et l'augmentation de l'entreprise est telle qu'elle nécessite une action concertée au plan régional avec toute l'aide de la communauté internationale et notamment de tous les pays possédant déjà une longue expérience en la matière. C'est pour cela que notre délégation voudrait apporter son plein appui à la stratégie à long terme, telle qu'elle est préconisée par la FAO, et qu'elle appuie l'effort de coordination de la FAO ainsi que le projet de résolution qui est soumis à son attention, en pensant toutefois qu'il pourrait peut-être être amélioré, et à ce stade nous ne savons pas si nous pouvons déjà nous permettre, au premier paragraphe du Préambule, juste après le point virgule, dans le texte français, et je pense aussi dans le texte anglais, d'ajouter "et constitue un frein au développement rural". Je ne pense pas que cela constitue une amélioration, mais enfin c'est une idée que l'on pourrait envisager. Au niveau du dispositif, au paragraphe 2. 1, il faudrait peut-être que nous entendions que parmi les activités connexes dont il s'agit, il faudrait entendre, comprendre, les activités de formation.
C. BENJAMIN (United States of America): First, I would like to join the other speakers in thanking Dr. Mussman for his interesting slide presentation last night, and Mr. Bukar Shaib for his remarks this morning.
The United States supports and encourage FAO's proposed Programme on Africa Animal Trypanosomiasis because of the enormous losses caused by this disease in Africa. Likewise it supports the concept of establishing the Commission on African Animal Trypanosomiasis as outlined in the draft resolution distributed as document C 79/LIM/43. The United States commends FAO on its philosophy of including programmes on land use and other social initiatives within the framework of Trypanosomiasis control.
However we feel that perhaps insufficient attention has been given to the total animal health programmes of the affected countries. For example, when an area has been cleared of Trypanosomiasis, tick borne diseases such as East Coast Fever, Babesiosis, heartwater and Anaplasmosis will frequently decimate newly introduced livestock populations. Other animal diseases too, such as Rinderpest and contagious bovine pleuropneumonia will assume prominence with livestock population densities increase.
Also efforts to increase land acreage utilization by tsetse fly control should be based on proven or documented needs for more land for food production, including a favourable economic cost benefit study.
My government believes that the successful demonstration of Trypanosomiasis eradication in a large area should be one of the primary goals of this programme. This may already be being done, but if not the U. S. recommends that a clearly defined geographical area, not subject to rapid tsetse fly reinfestation, be identified into a major effort to eradicate Trypanosomiasis to be initiated during the forthcoming biennium in order to determine the multiplicity of ancilliary factors affecting the overall objective. Such a demonstration area would indicate the feasibility of eradication, and thus stimulate the interest of affected countries and provide justification for external support.
In conducting this demonstration it would seem appropriate to clearly identify the input from research, modest development and the actual action to eradicate the disease. This type of documentation is not apparent from the documents. The programme, as outlined in document C 79/29 essentially addresses the action phase and presents very little information about research. The United States would have preferred to see more information on current research programmes and research needs in the document at least as an appendix.
These minor points concerning the document the United States has noted -- Table 3 on page A6 includes no units. We assume that the unit is millions of dollars. Also on pages Al and A2 the cost figures per unit of land or head of cattle vary enormously. It would appear that some reason for the wide variation in cost per unit area or per head of cattle could have been included.
Z. EL-JWIERAH (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) (interpretation from Arabic): After reviewing this document C 79/29, we find this document points out the need for formulating of land that would cover all infested areas in the African continent, which includes 36 countries covering 10 million square kilometres, and this disease is carried by the tsetse fly which is harmful both to man and animal. This disease causes a break to animal livestock and a hindrance to rural development despite the fact that Africa has very good land. Secondly, there is an urgent need to devlop pastures and face the increasing demand through planting suitable areas of land, and this would call for the mobilization of efforts to control the tsetse fly and Trypanosomiasis.
Thirdly, control in the first place should be followed, and then afterwards we should plan the use of land and development and arrange that the countries in infested areas should cooperate among themselves, and international organizations should cooperate in the control of this disease. Therefore the delegation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia supports what has been mentioned in the document and we should cooperate to control this disease, and this will benefit all the countries in the infested areas in addition to benefiting those countries who are importers of these animals.
P. Kanga (Angola): En premier lieu, nous voulons nous joindre aux autres délégués pour présenter nos félicitations au Secrétariat de la FAO et au Dr. Mussman pour la présentation de ces documents d'une manière claire et satisfaisante. Le document qui nous a été présenté sur la lutte contre la trypanosomiase animale africaine revêt une grave importance pour notre pays tant pour le programme de développement que pour les méthodes de lutte, les mesures proposées, et le financement. Nous remercions la FAO des efforts qu'elle fournit afin de vaincre ce grand fléau permettant ainsi au continent africain, par l'apport d'une importante quantité de viande, d'atténuer la pénurie alimentaire.
Sur les 10 millions de km2, englobant 36 pays dont la République populaire angolaise, ce fléau constitue un facteur limitant pour le développement de l'élevage.
Pour ce qui est de la lutte contre la trypanosomiase animale, notamment la lutte anti-vectorielle, peu de choses ont été réalisées lors de la colonisation. La diminution de la population dans les parties septentrionales du pays était due au débrousaillement entrepris pour permettre l'implantation du café dans de nouvelles zones.
L'accent a été mis sur les cas humains; aucune activité marquée n'a été menée dans la lutte vétérinaire et dans la lutte anti-vectorielle.
Après avoir évalué la situation actuelle, et à la suite de visites effectuées à l'intérieur du pays, il ressort que la trypanosomiase devrait relever conjointement de services de santé et de services vétérinaires dans tout le pays. Des réunions d'information ont montré que toutes les parties concernées étaient soucieuses de collaborer en ce sens. Les responsables nationaux se sont entendus sur les grandes lignes de la surveillance de la trypanosomiase et de la lutte contre cette affection, en particulier sur l'organisation et la mise en oeuvre d'une campagne nationale. La surveillance et la lutte contre la trypanosomiase animale seront menées avec les services vétérinaires du Ministère de l'Agriculture.
Les secteurs de la mission de lutte possédant un nombre satisfaisant d'assistants, de laboratoires, chaque équipe inspectera les troupeaux et effectuera deux fois l'an des examens sur tout le bétail, informera le public des méthodes de lutte à adopter. Ces équipes contrôleront les mouvements d'animaux infectés se déplaçant vers les non-infectés, ainsi que les moyens de transport. Tous les animaux qui traverseront les zones infestées seront soumis au traitement chimioprophylactique.
Les trypanosomes sévissent sur un énorme réservoir de gibier, notamment antilopes et phacochères. Cet aspect de la trypanosomiase, en République populaire angolaise, doit faire l'objet d'une enquête avant la mise en oeuvre d'un programme d'eradication efficace. La question du rôle éventuel des singes et des phacochères, comme réservoir de la trypanosomiase mérite d'être étudiée. Des recherches sont également nécessaires pour déterminer la virulence individuelle des souches de trypanosomiase animale sur la population humaine locale. Sur la surveillance du vecteur, la solution définitive du problème de la trypanosomiase dépend des mesures de lutte contre la mouche tsé-tsé, facteur de la maladie. Les principes généraux relatifs à la surveillance de la mouche tsé-tsé sont compliqués par l'existence de plusieurs espèces, et sous-espèces, de cette mouche.
Le problème de la trypanosomiase préoccupe de plus en plus les organismes sanitaires et vétérinaires de cette région d'Afrique. Les difficultés rencontrées pour appliquer des mesures de surveillance et de lutte, tant pour les hommes que pour les animaux, montrent clairement la nécessité de renforcer d'urgence la coopération régionale dans le cadre de la coopération technique entre pays en développement. Un centre commun permettra de faciliter l'échange rapide de renseignements entre les pays concernés.
Dans le document C 79/29, le premier tableau indique que la zone actuellemente infestée par la tsé-tsé est de l'ordre de 500 000 km2, ce qui impliquerait la moitié de notre territoire, alors que d'après nos statistiques, nous l'évaluerions à 18, 5 pour cent, ce qui correspond à environ 200 000 km2.
Les préoccupations que nous venons de formuler et la réalisation de ces objectifs nécessitent une aide, tant technique que scientifique, surtout dans le domaine de la formation de cadres. Ainsi, ma délégation appuie dans toute son intégrité les documents C 79/26 et C 79/LIM/42.
B. MAYANJA (Uganda): The statement made yesterday by Dr. Mussman accompanied by slide illustration regarding the Programme for the Control of African Animal Trypanosomiasis and Related Developments, together with the content of document C 79/29 and the Ninth Report C 79/LIM/43 of the Resolutions Committee, all these combined constitute a basis for our dicussion. That being the case, my delegation wishes to make collective comments on them.
In our opinion the content of the documents and that of the statement made by Dr. Mussman is basically factually accurate. Those documents and the statement highlight constraints imposed by African Trypanosomiasis to animal production and to general agricultural and integrated rural development.
They go on to outline measures that can be adopted to avert on diminish impediments which constitute major obstacles to production and development. The measures particularly singled out are (1) application of known methods to control Trypanosomiasis, (2) adopting the strategy to economic development of affected areas, (3) the establishment and strengthening and institution for coordinating the control of Trypanosomiasis and the economic activities, and inviting bilateral and multilateral assistance agencies to support, control and govern projects launched by individual governments or regional organizations.
My delegation fully supports the long-term strategy as outlined in document C 79/29, and also endorses the organizational structure within the organ of FAO proposed for the coordinating role which FAO will exercise.
Furthermore, we endorse the Tenth FAO Regional Conference recommendations supporting the action programme and the preparatory activities that may emanate from the FAO Programme of Work and Budget.
Regarding development aspects, we fully support the intended integrated approach to community and area development.
Having said that, we wish to report that the situation of tsetse and trypanosomiasis in Uganda is worrying. At present, 23 percent of our total land surface area is infested by tsetse flies. My government uses its meagre resources through the Departament of Tsetse Control to stop the spread of the flies in areas occupied by people and livestock. In addition, measures are employed to regain land infested by the fly, which land is needed for economic development. The other method deployed in the struggle is to consolidate reclaimed areas through settlement projects against the invasion.
Regarding livestock and human suffering from nagana and sleeping sickness respectively, chemotherapy is the only means by which life may be sustained. By now, you will have noted that we have waged war against tsetse and trypanosomiasis. Obviously, the task ahead of us is of such magnitude that external technical support, financial assistance, and a structure to coordinate the control of the trypanosomiasis scourge are prerequisite necessities if we are to achieve the desired objective.
In conclusion, I wish emphatically to reiterate that ny delegation wholeheartedly welcomes the proposals put before the Conference by the Director-General regarding the Programme for the Control of African Animal Trypanosomiasis and Related Development, and as such we give the highest possible support to the formation of a Commission on African Animal Trypanosomiasis.
May I now, therefore, appeal on behalf of my delegation to member delegates to join us in supporting the Draft Resolution in C 79/LIM/43, so that the statutes there of become a reality.
A. S. SIDIBE (Mali): La Delegation du Mali présente ses félicitations à la Division de la Production et de la santé animale de la FAO, pour la présentation qui nous a été faite hier du document Programme de lutte contre la trypanosomiase africaine.
Le Mali est par essence un grand pays d'élevage en Afrique de l'ouest. Le bétail se trouvant surtout dans les zones sahéliennes, la pression sur les pâturages y est très forte. C'est donc tout naturellement que nous pensons utiliser les immenses pâturages du Sud du pays; ces zones à si bons pâturages, capables de valoriser nos productions animales, sont inhospitalières à l'homme et à l'animal à cause de la trypanosomiase animale. Nous avons donc tenté depuis plus de quinze ans différents moyens de lutte: multiplication du bétail trypanotolérant, grâce à l'appui de la CEE, protection du bétail de la zone endémique par des trypanocytes, et formation de l'encadrement grâce à l'appui de la France et de la FAO, et plus récemment Programme de recherche appliquée sur le biotope et les moyens d'éradication des mouches, formation des encadreurs et utilisation des vecteurs libérés, grâce à l'aide des Etats-Unis d'Amérique.
C'est le lieu de remercier tous ces pays donateurs, c'est aussi le lieu de dire qu'un début d'encadrement national et de connaissances suffisantes existent dan différents pays africains.
Il est possible de démarrer rapidement un programme de lutte contre la trypanosomiase animale africaine.
Pas ailleurs, nous soutenons le projet de résolution concernant la création de la Commission de lutte contre la trypanosomiase animale africaine, cependant, pour plus d'efficacité, el faudrait une collaboration FAO/OUA, un renforcement des moyens et du suivi de l'équipe OUA, la mise en place d'une structure régionale du genre PC 15, campagne contre la peste bovine.
J. R. GOMEZ RICAÑO (Cuba): Nuestra Delegación ha examinado con atención el contenido del Documento C 79/29, fortalecido por la clara explicación del Dr. Mussman y del Presidente independiente del Consejo de FAO. Ello nos lleva a considerar que dentro del área del territorio afectado por la tripanosomiasis, de 9 a 10 millones de kilómetros cuadrados, hay 3 para el desarrollo de bosques y de 6 a 7 para el desarrollo de la ganadería y cultivos. La ganadería pues se convierte en un serio problema que hay que afrontar para permitir el desarrollo rural y el avance de la explotación ganadera. Estimamos que las medidas que se han tomado en los últimos 15 años, con la colaboración de países directamente a través de la FAO, han permitido avances notables en el control de la enfermedad misma. Sim embargo, si comparamos el total de las zonas infectadas por la mosca, que aparece en los 36 países del cuadro I de la página A 4, con la superficie saneada en 13 de ellos, que no pasa de 300 000 km2, que aparece en el cuadro II de la página A 5 del propio apéndice, nos percatamos de que el camino que falta aun por andar es todavía muy largo, existiendo además el peligro de la red de infectación.
Nuestra Delegación apoya con energía los esfuerzos que se vienen haciendo por la FAO y los Gobiernos donantes, así como la estrategia de trabajos y fondos propuestos en el Documento de referencia y otros documentos de la Conferencia. Repetimos que, dadas las limitaciones que impone esta enfermedad para el desarrollo socioeconómico de tan vasta área en el Africa Tropical, nunca serán bastantes los esfuerzos que los organismos especializados hagan para erradicarla.
Finalmente, quisiéramos referirnos al proyecto de resolución presentado por la delegación de Nigeria sobre la creación de una comisión sobre tripanosomiasis, y decir que nuestra delegación la apoya decididamente, pues constituye un elemento más de colaboración en le lucha contra esta peligrosa enfermedad.
W. Κ. NGULO (Kenya): The problems of parasitic animal diseases in Africa have received little attention over the years from the developed world which has been in a position to help technologically. Among these diseases, animal trypanosomiasis and tick-borne diseases rank very high. It is therefore extremely heartening that over the last few years world bodies and organizations, private as well as governmental, have considered it prudent to assist in controlling these parasitic diseases that have troubled Africa for a long time. We would like to think that it is because of the new concepts of the totality of the world food situation that this has happened, but whatever the reason may be, the move is very welcome indeed. It augurs very well indeed for the aspirations of FAO as well as for the priorities of African Governments.
The recent setting up in Kenya of the International Centre for Insect Physiology and Ecology, the International Laboratory for Research on Animal Diseases, and the office of the International Livestock Centre for Africa, as well as the setting up of other facilities elsewhere on the continent is ample proof that the world has at last woken up to the realities of our plight.
In addition, in Kenya we have a Trypanosomiasis Chemotherapy Research Unit aided by West Germany, and also a Trypanosomiasis Immunology Research Unit aided by the Washington-based Walter Reed Group. This is augmented by our own research capabilities. To those organizations my delegation expresses our gratitude. It is in that background that we in Kenya view the FAO Programme for the Control of African Animal Trypanosomiasis and Related Development. For FAO has gone further than just controlling the disease and this, to us, is the ideal situation. In Kenya there has existed within the Ministry of Agriculture a Tsetse Survey and Control Unit since the interruption of veterinary services early in this century. The work of this unit, has been, as the name would suggest, the survey and control of tsetse fly with a small component in research.
We have not done any cost-benefit analysis of the control of tsetse fly, although analyses have been done on the control of the disease using drug regimes of various types. Suffice it to say that we spent about $ 600 000 in foreign exchange for the purchase of drugs only. Further, we consider this amount to be insignificant when compared with the losses occurring due to death and wasting of livestock, mainly cattle. It is, I think, useful to note that we also have trypanosomiasis in camels in Kenya. We recognize two approaches for the control of animal trypanosomiasis - one the control of the trypanosome parasite, and two, the control of the vector tsetse fly. On control of the parasite we have attempted to use drugs and then vaccine trials. We are not hoping to get the results of the vaccine trials, mainly because of the multiplicity of strains of trypanosomes.
We have read about trypanotolerant which is a sedative. We think this is not applicable because some of the infected cattle could be a source of infection to our high-producing but susceptible livestock. We have therefore relied on drugs, but they have very severe setbacks. These drugs are usually imported, and sometimes we are not able to get them. Then there is the problem of chemo-resistance as we have come up with strains that are resistant to almost anything we have. Thirdly, the cost of the drugs is added on to the input of the farmer, therefore lowering the profits to farmers.
The last point is that we found some interesting results of the trypanosomes having the interesting ability of migrating into the cerebro-spinal fluid where the drug cannot get at them. We have found even more amazing the trypanosomes enter the lymph nodes, and this happens even where you cannot find the parasite in the blood and in these areas you cannot even treat them with drugs. Therefore the only way open to us has been the use of other methods for control of the tsetse fly.
As indicated in paragraph 5A of document C 79/29, several African countries have managed to reclaim parts of their areas formerly infested with tsetse fly. We recognize therefore that tsetse control is the only way open to us for effective control of tsetse. One therefore is tempted to ask if these countries have managed to reclaim parts of their countries, why cannot they do it in the remaining area, and this is a legitimate question.
In Kenya reclamation of the little area we have been able to reclaim has been achieved through bush clearing and sometimes spraying followed by effective human settlement to cultivate the land and keep the bush down. For effective human settlement, however desirable, infrastructure is necessary. Desirable infrastructure means the provision of hospitals, schools, roads, markets, and in my country, water.
Allow me to digress a bit on this water. Many years ago, when we were in school way back home, our teacher told us it was important for the body to have water, that water was vital for human life, that if we stayed for about a week without water our bodies would get dehydrated, that one could die earlier from lack of water than from lack of food. Then our school mate Peter who had gone out with his father
for 10 days to look for honey in a bush where there is no water, got intrigued, because the only liquid they had was a porridge made of millet flour and milk. He said, Did you say, Sir, I could die if I did not take water in a week? Yes, you might.
But I go with my father for many days and only take porridge with us, no water. Don't be silly, Peter, you have to have water to mix the flour to make porridge. But, Sir, we use only milk.
Don't be silly, Peter, for the cow to produce milk, it has to have water. The teacher did not know about the camel that could go for long days and still produce water. Up till now I have never been able to find out who had the better argument.
The point I am trying to make here is that the provision of water, both for human beings and livestock consumption is a vital aspect of any development in these tsetse inpested areas. In my country we have not been able to provide everybody with drinking water despite the existence of the Ministry of Water Development. We are therefore not in a position to open up this tsetse area and for the same reason, though we have many lakes and even the Indian Ocean, but we do not have the capital and technology for this vast development of our water resources. I think it is in the supply of water that we are likely to face the crunch in this trypanosomiasis programme. In fact, I feel myself that more emphasis should be placed by the entire FAO system on the supply of water so that instead of talking about the provision of food, we should talk about the pprovision of food and water, for according to my former teacher you have to have the water to mix the porridge.
Despite the magnitude of the problems of Kenya as a developing country, we have great confidence in the FAO, for it has done a lot for my country. This is why we have fully supported the FAO programme and participated in its training programme. However, I am persuaded to support the delegate of the United Kingdom that the project is perhaps gigantic. If you want to go from A to Z, you have not moved as long as you are on point A, but if you go to pont Β you have made some progress.
We recognize also that in tackling the control of animal trypanosomiasis FAO, with the help of all, will have at its disposal several combinations and selections of control measures. I have in mind, for example, the precious national parks and game reserves which are tsetse infested, where vegetation cannot be destroyed, and which could be a constant threat to reclaimed areas. We in Kenya will do our level best to see that the desired goal is achieved. We believe that it can be done. To this end the Kenyan delegation supports the resolution on Agenda Item 17 as contained in document C 79/LIM/43.
T. BEN SOUDA KORACHI (Maroc): Mon intervention sera brève, mais je voudrais vous dire que nous avons suivi avec un grand intérêt la projection et l'excellent commentaire qui nous ont été présentés hier par le Dr. Mussman concernant la trypanosomiase et ses méfaits, ainsi que la stratégie à long terme envisagée en vue de l’eradication de ce fléau. Le Maroc, bien que ne se trouvant pas dans la zone concernée, suit avec grand intérêt les efforts déployés dans ce domaine par les pays frères d'Afrique en collaboration notamment avec la FAO. D'autant plus que mon pays, qui a été élu en septembre dernier par la cinquième session du CMA Vice-Président de cet organisme, a été chargé par celui-ci d'entreprendre les contacts nécessaires avec les pays africains en vue de coordonner les politiques nationales visant l'augmentation de la production agricole et animale des pays en développement. Il appuie donc sans réserve le projet de résolution présenté par le Nigeria.
G. B. SESAY (Sierra Leone): I congratulate the Director-General and the FAO Secretariat for the Programme for the Control of African Animal Trypanosomiasis and Related Development, Doc. C 79/29. As has already been mentioned by earlier speakers, the document has adequately dealt with the subject matter, it has been very concise and to the point. My delegation fully supports the programme proposed in the said document.
Considering the extent of the geographical coverage and intensity of this deadly disease in the African continent, we agree the implementation of any official programme should have an effective coordinating organization and structure, as proposed in the document. We feel by this tactical approach effective implementation will be achieved.
My delegation fully supports the Draft Resolution on the establishment of a Commission on African Animal Trypanosomiasis contained in doc. C 79/LIM/43 and we wish to urge this Commission to support this resolution.
Κ. CHOUERI (Liban) (interprétation de l'arabe): Le programme de lutte contre la trypanosomiase animale en Afrique proposé par le Directeur général mérite toute notre attention et nous lui accordons notre total soutien car cette maladie peut mettre fin à une richesse animale qui peut, précisément, combler l'absence de protéines. Nous avons déjà exprimé notre soutien à la priorité accordée par le Directeur général à la lutte contre cette maladie dangereuse pour laquelle notre Organisation mobilise tous ses efforts et organise des plans, en coopération avec les différents pays concernés pour assumer ses responsabilités sur la mise en oeuvre du programme proposé au besoin d'aide technique financière qui pourra faire bénéficier les 36 régions infestées, en plus des pays qui importent de la viande. Par conséquent, nous approuvons le projet et nous félicitons le Directeur général pour l'excellent travail entrepris et nous donnons tout notre soutien à l'égard de la stratégie à long terme prévue pour atteindre cet objectif et nous soutenons le rôle de la FAO en matière de coordination.
H. WETZEL (Germany, Fed. Rep. of): To begin with I would like to express the fact that my delegation is very grateful for the Doc. No. 29, and also for the introduction to this item of the agenda, which was extremely well done. Mr. Chairman, the technical assessment contained in the FAO document that Trypanosomiasis is one of the most drastic impediments opposed to an expansion of bovine cattle production in Africa is a view very fully shared by my delegation. In the German bilateral cooperation a high priority is attached to the control of bovine Trypanosomiasis. So far the Federal Government has spent more than 13. 50 million Deutschmarks on Trypanosomiasis related matters. Within the economic cooperation measures are taken and are financially supported in four areas. These are, firstly, large scale tse-tse control. Secondly, biological tse-tse control, the sterile male technique. Thirdly, chemo-therapy and, fourthly, Trypano tolerance of bovine cattle. The Federal Government attaches great importance to these measures for controlling Trypanosomiasis. This area is one of the crucial items of German agrarian aid. And it will certainly remain a firm commitment for the future. We appreciate and attach importance to the coordinating function of the FAO and its call for cooperation. The Federal Government is in principle prepared to cooperate in this area too. As in the past it will, in respect of further measures, consult with other bilateral donors, as for instance France, and continue with such joint efforts. I refer to the comments made in this connexion by the French delegation. This cooperation can also be very useful with regard to the exchange of experiences and knowledge gained. We are, therefore, prepared to harmonize our bilateral measures with those of other donors, and to exchange experiences for which the proposed committee for whose setting-up a draft resolution contained in document C 79/LIM/43 was put forward, could be absolutely qualified.
Past experience has shown that Trypanosomiasis control should not be an isolated measure, but that it should serve to establish and support a number of complementary measures which one might call by the general term of regional development measures. This will also be recognized increasingly when implementing bilateral Trypanosomiasis control measures. Such integrated projects are at present being prepared in Upper Volta and Cameroon. We cannot survey the extent of our future financial involvement in this area of economic cooperation because we normally work on the basis of countries making requests first, and, therefore, our financial commitments will be subject to such government requests.
F. TADESSE (Ethiopia): Trypanosomiasis is considered to be one of the major bottlenecks for increasing agricultural development in Ethiopia, especially in the southern and western region of the country. The area infested with tse-tse fly is about 200, 000 km and it is estimated that at least 12 million cattle are at risk of being infected with this disease. As farming in Ethiopia is mostly practised by the use of draft animals, vast areas of fertile land which are affected with trypanosomiasis could not be cultivated. Our effort, to resettle people from high populated and famine stricken areas to the agriculturally suitable areas of the south-west has been hampered as a result of the constraints imposed by this disease on crop production and livestock.
During the five-year preparatory phase (1975/76) we have laid down the foundation which would be necessary to embark on the more difficult operational phase. Recognizing the fact that a specialize unit is essential to undertake this operation, such a unit has been established within the framework of our Ministry of Agriculture. The training of technical staff has been given serious consideration. In this respect, we have benefited from the various training programmes arranged by the collaboration of bilateral and international organizations, such as FAO.
Surveys have been conducted to determine the quantitative and qualitative distribution of tse-tse flies in Ethiopia. As a result of this survey, we are now in a better position to appreciate the extent and seriousness of the trypanosomiasis problem. Following the survey a programme for "Tse-tse fly and trypanosomiasis control and subsequent land use in south-western Ethiopia" was prepared. Both the survey and preparation of the programme were done in cooperation with the British Technical Assistance Team.
For the control programme to be more effective the coordination of the work of countries involved in the programme is essential. This becomes more important particularly in countries sharing common borders as they would be required to launch joint control operations. In this respect we strongly support the establishment of the proposed Commission of African Animal Trypanosomiasis and would like to be one of its members when such a commission is formed.
As indicated in the programme trypanosomiasis control and subsequent land development activities would require the input of a considerable amount of capital. At the national level we will try to mobilize funds for this undertaking. However, the magnitude of the capital input, makes it imperative to have external financial assistance.
On this occasion, we would like to express our full support for the Programme for the Control of African Animal Trypanosomiasis and Related Development, and we appreciate the initiative taken by FAO to act as coordinator for the achievement of the objectives indicated in the Programme.
J. S. CAMARA (Guinée): Je salue avec plaisir le Président indépendant du Conseil et suis satisfait de le voir assister à notre Commission. Je sais que depuis de longues années il s'est efforcé d'appuyer ce programme. Je serai très bref.
Je voudrais, au nom de ma délégation, saluer et féliciter le Directeur général de la FAO pour les efforts déployés et pour le programme qui nous est proposé et approuver également les efforts fournis par les pays donateurs et les institutions spécialisées dont la liste nous est communiquée. Je pense que la priorité accordée à ce programme de la lutte contre la trypanosomiase n'échappe à personne car, certains délégués l'ont souligné, cette maladie impose des limites au développement économique de notre pays. C'est donc en tenant compte de cela que nous apportons notre appui au programme de travail qui a été proposé par la FAO et également au projet de résolution, car les institutions d'une commission ne permettraient que de coordonner les activités et les actions qui sont menées non seulement par la FAO, mais par des donateurs bilatéraux et les pays qui sont concernés. Je pense que nous visons tous les mêmes objectifs et c'est un travail qui ne peut pas être fait uniquement sur le plan national ou par une seule organisation ou par un seul pays. Il faut donc qu'il y ait une coordination entre cette Commission et la FAO avec l'OUA; nous aiderons à combattre cette maladie. Je pense que la coordination est très importante et le rôle central de la FAO doit être souligné, en coordination avec l'Organisation pour l'Unité africaine; la mouche tsé-tsé n'attaque pas seulement l’animal, mais les personnes humaines sont touchées également. Je pense que le rôle de l'OMS a été souligné dans ce document et nous saluons également cette Organisation. Je conclus donc en disant que nous devons appuyer à l'unanimité la résolution proposée par la Commission.
J. H. MASON (Liberia): My delegation joins other member countries in extending our congratulations to the Secretariat for the excellent presentation they have presented concerning the control of animal trypanosomiasis, and also to Dr. Mussman for his presentation of last evening on this issue. Because of this my country fully supports the proposal and stands ready to pool all of its meagre resources in joining the fight against this deadly disease which has caused tremendous set backs in the area of livestock production on the continent of Africa. Also we support the draft resolution C 79/LIM/43.
S. SID AHMED (Sudan): I also would like to join my colleagues in commending the excellent audio-visual presentation of the subject, and also the valued remarks of Mr. Shaib. We also appreciate greatly the efforts made by the FAO Secretariat in preparing the documents. As we have come to know, a number of donor countries are already active in controlling trypanosomiasis in different countries, and we are very grateful for all of them. But the fact is that we still suffer from the disease, and that is why this has been given priority by FAO in the coming biennium.
On behalf of my delegation, we support the strategy of FAO in controlling the disease as well as the resolution calling for the creation of a Trypanosomiasis Commission. This will offer a platform for the exchange of experience and knowledge and for drawing up comprehensive measures for the control and eventual eradication of the disease.
K. M. KHUDHEIR (Iraq):interpretation from Arabic) My delegation totally supports the programme contained in this excellent document.
BUKAR SHAIB (independent Chairman of the Council): We have amongst us Dr. Etiang who is the Director of the OAU International Bureau for Animal Resources. That bureau was established during the 1950's by the colonial powers, especially Britain and Prance, and Belgium, and it was then passed on to the OAU as an ongoing concern on scientific matters relating to livestock in Africa. Dr. Etiang is here and he would like to explain a little to you about the part his organization might play in this exercise.
P. E. ETIANG (Observer for the Organization of African Unity): First of all I would like to state the appreciation of the Organization of African Unity for giving us the opportunity to address this assembly. The Scientific, Technical and Research Committee of the Organization of African Unity has been entrusted with the control of tsetse and trypanosomiasis long before 1964. Under the aegis of the OAU, tsetse and trypanosomiasis activities are run by the International Scientific Council for Trypanosomiasis Research and Control, generally known as ISCTRC. The Council meets every two years, while the Executive Committee meets annually.
During both the Council and the Executive Committee meetings, several recommendations have been passed calling on the OAU to look into the possibility of controlling this disease. As a result of this, the OAU has made considerable efforts to assist member states tackle this problem nationally and internationally in the field of research, control, training, et cetera.
Despite the many years of effort by both African and non-African countries, there does not seem to be any remarkable decrease in the gravity of the problem. The only way to obtain any reasonable result is to organize a concerted, coordinated action in the form of joint projects requiring the cooperation of all interested international organizations, affected African countries, donor agencies, et cetera. It is for this reason that the OAU accepted the fact that the World Pood Conference has called upon FAO to launch, as a matter of urgency, a long-term programme for the control of African trypanosomiasis as a project of high priority.
At the first FAO consultation held in Accra in 1975 to review the programme and advise on its implementation, coordination and management, the OAU member states, recognizing the important role the OAU would play, recommended that the OAU must be involved at all stages in the implementation and coordination of the programme.
This recommendation was further endorsed at the second FAO consultation held in Lusaka in 1978. The OAU is pleased to record the fact that FAO has involved them in every step leading to the control of tsetse and trypanosomiasis.
In Bangui at the fifteenth meeting of the ISCTRC, the need for cooperation in the control of tsetse and trypanosomiasis was recognized and a recommendation was passed calling on the OAU to cooperate fully with the FAO in the realization of its programme. At the Tenth FAO Regional Conference in Arusha in 1978, the African countries again called for close collaboration between FAO and OAU and further asked for the strengthening of the facilities of the OAU to be equipped to collaborate with FAO in the execution of the programme.
The OAU, in support of the programme, has been involved in organizing jointly with the FAO and WHO a number of activities including training, seminars, et cetera. There are plans for many such cooperative actions in the future. The OAU also recognizes the additional coordinationg role it has to play, particularly at the subregional level. While cooperationg with the FAO the OAU supports the establishment of the proceed Commission as tabled by the delegate from the Republic of Nigeria, in the hope that it will be an effective tool in furthering the efforts of the FAO and OAU member states in the control of tsetse and trypanosomiasis in the interests of the African continent.
CHAIRMAN: The delegates of the United Arab Emirates, Zambia and Gabon were kind enough to send in their written interventions to the secretariat who will take appropriate action.
We have now come to the end of our discussions and it is fair that the secretariat should comment on one or two points or issues raised during the debate. I will therefore call on Dr. Bommer to give his reply to some of the issues raised.
E. OSSINGA (Gabon): L'honorable délégué du Botswana a posé une question pertinente concernant les produits obtenus par croisement, à savoir:
Est-ce que ces produits ne perdent pas leur tolérance au contact d'autres races ?
D'après les expériences en cours au Gabon en vue d'une amélioration, notamment en gabarit, des races trypanotoierantes et, partant, leur rendement en viande, nous sommes parvenus à quelques conclusions que nous sommes en train de vérifier.
En effet, nous avons importé du Swaziland des mâles de gabarit pratiquement équivalent à celui des races européennes que nous avons croisés avec des NDAMA de petit gabarit, mais trypanotolérants.
Nous avons observé que le facteur trypanotolérant acquis au stade F1, sans être équivalent au facteur initial quant au degré de tolérance, est fort intéressant si on le place en rapport avec l'amélioration du gabarit et du rendement viande.
Ce facteur trypanotolérant des F1 disparaît certes dès que les animaux sont placés dans des zones infestées de tsé-tsé, ce qui nous a permis de conclure qu'il n'était pas définitif.
Certes, nous avons observé que même les trypanotol érants n'étaient pas épargnés, mais la tolérance des F1, sans être égale à celle des NDAMA, permet quelques espoirs par rapport à la race introduite.
Enfin, nous avons observé que les NDAMA et les F1 des croisements, replacés dans des zones désinfestées, retrouvaient un état sanitaire complètement satisfaisant alors que la race introduite demeurait malade.
O. ALI JUMA (Tanzania): The Tanzania Delegation would like to record its endorsement and support of the draft resolution as in document C 79/LΙΜ/43, on the control of African Animal Trypanosomiasis, and would like also to associate with other delegations in congratulating the FAO Head of Animal Production and Health Division for his comprehensive presentation of the above paper. Our delegation wishes to repeat emphasis on the importance of control of tse-tse flies, and eventual eradication of trypanosomiasis in the African continent, as has already been done by previous speakers.
At the moment there is no specific control method which can be claimed to be effective on tse--tse control, and as such we find it premature to comment specifically on any one of them, but it is our belief that the existing methods now under research such as introduction of trypanotolerant animals, insecticidal spray, male-sterile techniques, genetic control manipulation of the tse-tse flies, chemioterapeutic are all very interesting and indeed the first work of the Commission should be to review the work which has been done in different countries, on those methods and advise member countries on their effectiveness, success and failures.
Our delegation would like to support the united Kingdom delegation's view that for the Commission to be more useful and meaningful, instead of having all technicians and personnel in Rome it should also have a coordinating unit in Africa where the problem exists.
In conclusion our delegation would like to comment on para 23 of the document and the statement made by Mr. Mussman yesterday that the Programme will become heavily involved during the first four years in the West African Subregion. Our delegation, which has no objection to that, feels however that since we have established that trypanosomiasis is a major problem in all affected countries, also taking into account that in several such countries programmes of tse-tse and trypoanosomiasis control are being undertaken, we would suggest that the Commission in its initial stage, be entrusted with the responsibilities of reviewing tse-tse and trypanosomiasis control programmes in those countries and in consultation with all member states to work out a plan of operation. 1/
M. A. A. MOHAMMED (United Arab Emirates) (translated from Arabic): The Delegation of the United Arab Emirates supports this programme unconditionally, after having considered the working paper presented by FAO. Our Delegation supports the proposals made by various countries which stand to profit from this programme which is of a nature to increase food production and increase food security, particularly in Africa and the world at large. l/
1/ Statement inserted in the verbatim records on request.
B. O. M. CHIYABWE (Zambia): My delegation considers the Programme on the control of the African Animal Trypanosomiasis to be of great importance in the endeavours of many African countries to increase livestock production. We strongly support the long-term strategy as outlined in the document and endorse the Organizational structure as proposed for the coordinative role which FAO will exercise. In addition to this regional approach in the control of this disease, we also feel that the programme should be accompanied by a land utilization programme of land that is freed of tse-tse fly infestation, not only for livestock production but also for crop production.
In view of the importance of this programme, my country supports the draft resolution on the establishment of a Commission on the African Animal Trypanosomiasis. 1/
D. F. R. BOMMER (Assistant Director-General, Agriculture Department): Before Dr. Mussman replies to various points raised in the discussion, I wanted to say first on behalf of the Director-General how much he appreciates the strong support this Commission has given to the Programme and to the resolution which calls for the establishment of a Commission, and certainly on the coordination role FAO should play within this very important programme. We are fully aware of the complexity and long-term nature of the struggle which is proposed, therefore we were very much interested to hear the comments and experience of the various nations involved in such activities in the past.
I was somewhat surprised to hear one delegate mention that it would be the first time that FAO accepted such a coordination role because it should know that it is very much within the procedures of FAO to accept such a coordinator role as in the Desert Locust Control Programme in food security assistance, in various fisheries activities and others.
I shall now ask Dr. Mussman. to reply to more specific questions raised during the debate.
H. C. MOBSMAN (Director, Animal Production and Health Division): A number of points were raised during the discussions by various delegations this morning. I would like to address them as completely as possible since it is not very easy to follow up on these other than at this time. If I neglect to mention a point that one or another delegation may have raised, I hope that will be brought directly to someone's attention so that we can cover it at a later time.
It was suggested that perhaps the field that was being covered was too broad to be considered all at one time, and that perhaps a separate control programme, a separate development programme might be a wise alternative. To this we can only say that we recognise that they are diverse programes and they represent broad coverage, but we would also contend that to do one without the other would be a denial of the importance of keeping them together, running them in parallel.
I think that we have reviewed this subject at some length within the secretariat, and certainly with the members of the countries that are affected, and I think the consensus is completely in accord with the idea of having the broad approach. We want to have everything moving forward, obviously we cannot deal with the entire African continent all at one time, and for this reason it was pointed out yesterday that the initial efforts would emphasise greatly the area of West Africa; and to the extent that it is possible, and that there are programme activities under way, there would be support available for the East and Southeast Africa area.
Another question or point was raised about the timing, whether it might be desirable to wait longer before starting, whether resources would be available and so on. I think this is always a legitimate question, but I think too that one organization or any group of organizations could wait indefinitely if you wanted to have everything all set to go. In other words, in this case we feel we have reached the point where we have a solid programme designed in which the countries are fully in concurrence with the approach strategy.
We have had indications from donor countries, not only by virtue of their existing supportive activities but of their commitments to us for continued support in the future, and it seems that if we undertake the preparatory missions which were described in the documents to define the needs in the countries, it is unlikely that these projects will go unfunded. We are extremely confident about this particular point.
1/ Statement inserted in the Verbatim records on request.
I have already noted the intention of the programme to focus on a smaller part of the continent than the entire area affected. You will recall I mentioned yesterday zonal distribution, which we showed on a slide indicating that because of the tremendous pressures being put on that area because of movements of animals from north to south, this seemed to be the most ideal location in which to initiate activities. We shall be concentrating on that area.
There was a statement made, in fact I think several people used the word "eradication", and I think it was implicit in what was said that eradication in the terms being used signified a belief that perhaps the tsetse might be eradicated completely from the African environment. I would like to clarify this point because it is one on which I think there are some extensive misunderstandings.
We very carefully selected the word "control" in the title of this Programme, this was not done haphazardly, certainly we gave it a lot of thought. I think eradication is a concept that would be desirable, but we have to recognize that within the scope of the Programme and the environment with which we are dealing that is unlikely to occur at least in the lifetime of any of us.
The idea of an eradication programme is possible in certain localized areas, and to this end I think we will be able to address ourselves most effectively. I give as evidence the fact that there have been several locations in Africa where there have been successful total eradication efforts undertaken: Northern Nigeria for one, and there are parts of Kenya in which complete eradication has been achieved. Botswana has advised us that they are on the brink of undertaking a complete eradication programme because the technology is available.
This does not deny the need for continued research and continued methods of development. As the programme moves ahead these are areas in which we would want to place every bit as much emphasis as has been placed in the past, and not to underestimate their importance in the future, but to have the belief that the eradication of this tsetse from the entire African continent is the goal in the short or medium, or even in the longterm, is I think, to have a misunderstanding of the programme. We know there are areas in Africa in which there is little or no interest economically in the development of land where it is affected by the tsetse. Obviously an effort in those areas would be unwise and unjustified at this time. There are other areas in which for ecological and environmental reasons, suppression of the tsetse population may be possible but not complete eradication. So we would envisage the outcome of this programme having a variety of inputs anywhere from leaving an area completely untouched to a complete eradication programme, and I think if everyone understands how that will come about we will all be thinking in the same way.
There was a suggestion made that because of the nature of the programme that it should be perhaps outposted to Africa and much of the direction of the programme be put into Africa. We have discussed this extensively and in fact it has been a subject of discussion at an earlier conference and at various consultations which we have held, and one of the things I would like to point out to the delegations here today is that we have a very strong programme in the regional office in Accra with a tsetse support officer, in addition to an animal production and health officer. We are about to place a tsetse control officer in East Africa and we are only strengthening the staff in headquarters by one person. That would be for the coordination of training programmes.
The other point I need to make in this regard, if you will recall in the description there were a number of development support units identified in those zones in Africa each of which would be composed of several specialists. These in turn would coordinate activities in those respective zones along with government officials, so we think to a great extent this decentralization into the African scene is being accomplished.
We feel at the moment the overall monitoring and coordination perhaps should be carried out from headquarters for the simple reason that communications are excellent in most parts of Africa whereas in some parts within Africa it might not be that easy, and in addition because of the close involvement that we would envisage for us, for all of us in FAO in dealing with the donor governments and the African countries themselves in making certain that the correct contacts have been made. I think for the moment we see the need for maintaining this sort of approach, but certainly the door is open as the programme progresses for considering other changes in the way in which it would be carried out.
There were several delegations discussing the JP 15 Rinderpest programme and what similarity and what could be learned from that which might be applied in this case. I should point out here that we borrowed rather heavily from the concept of the Rinderpest campaign and in fact some of the staff of the Animal Production and Health Division actually were involved in that campaign, but there were two major differences between the Trypanosomiasis effort and the Rinderpest. In this case we have no vaccine to use. Hopefully in the future we may.
Secondly, in the Rinderpest campaign there was no area development: the kind of land use planning in rural development on which we are placing such a high priority as we are in the Trypanosomiasis programme. I think it is clear that they differ substantially, but to the extent that we can use or draw from those experienced in the Rinderpest campaign, certainly we would want to do so. Certainly a number of areas were cited and questions were raised regarding the appendices in the document 79/29. On table III the Corrigendum does identify the figures in the table as being in millions of dollars, and in regard to the disparity which appears to exist from the numbers in the examples given under (i), (ii) and so on, the disparity as to the cost per area of land or per animal, per head of cattle, I think I should point out that these figures are only to be looked upon as being indicative. What we have done is draw upon existing situations in various locations. We have cited certain models to give impressions, identifying the fact that in certain areas there may be nothing existing at the moment whereas in others there may be an infrastructure established and the wherewithall to move ahead rather quickly. Obviously the cost will vary substantially between approaches in one area versus another. So I hope if you look at those examples (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) in that context, I think the thing can be clarified relatively easily.
If I may take just a moment to address the rather specific question of Botswana as regard to trypanotolerant animals if they are moved to other locations and crossed with other breeds, we do know that frequently when trypanotolerant animals are moved from one location where they have been for a long time to another, the trypanotolerance is not as effective as it was where they came from. Unfortunately, at the moment, this whole subject of trypanotolerance is not completely understood. However, if you exterpolate from that, if you cross with non-trypanotolerant animals, it would further delete any kind of tolerance that may exist. As far as the comparison of productivity, the studies that we have undertaken in much of the work jointly with the United Nations Environment Programme and with ILCA in Addis Ababa, has shown that the productivity of the trypanotolerant animals more than non-trypanotolerant animals, given a clean environment, is esentially the same. However, when you put them under the stress of the challenge of the searching into Trypanosomiasis, obviously those which are not tolerant sicken and frequently die whereas the others can survive quite nicely. But on the basis of strict productivity, more or less equal in nature, and so it is a very interesting subject.
I think I have covered most of the items that were raised. I hope I did not go through them too quickly. If there are other questions beyond those which were raised this morning, anyone in FAO will be happy to try to deal with them.
CHAIRMAN: This brings to a close our discussion on this particular item; there were 25 speakers on this debate and there has been no adverse comment on the resolution, and I take it that the resolution has been adopted. Coming from a country which is relatively Trypanosomiasis tolerant, and from the fact of what most delegations have informed us about their cooperation between countries, being in common with the disease and common problems which calls for economic cooperation, especially among developing countries, it seems that our agenda is relatively strong and have identified a major problem, and we are going to discuss this problem in another topic in another place.
J. F. YRIART (Subdirector General del Departamento de Desarrollo): El apremio por la promoción de la Cooperación Técnica entre Países en Desarrollo ha adquirido relevancia por ser un elemento esencial en los esfuerzos para establecer un Nuevo Orden Económico Internacional. El que CTPD y la Cooperación Económica entre Países en Desarrollo aparezcan como subtemas separados en la Agenda de la Conferencia, no debe oscurecer el hecho de que cooperación técnica y económica están estrechamente vinculadas
y frecuentemente se superimponen en los campos y actividades de interés inmediato de la FAO. Si el Secretariado ha preferido hacer esta separación, ha sido por conveniencia administrativa, y para en-fatizar la naturaleza complementaria y compuesta de estos conceptos; y no para señalar diferencias en la substancia.
El Director General percibe claramente que al nivel de países, la cooperación técnica y economica en el campo de la agricultura y la alimentación se apoyan mutuamente, lo que hace difícil identificarlas como entidades separadas. Me apresuro a añadir, Sr. Presidente, que uso los términos agricultura y alimentación en su sentido genérico, para incluir tanto el sector forestal como el pesquero.
Los documentos C 79/26 y C 79/26 Suplemento 1, dan a los señores delegados una visión amplia de la respuesta de la FAO hasta el momento, al Plan de Acción de Buenos Aires para la promoción de la CTPD. Permítaseme también mencionar las secciones pertinentes del documento C 79/24, sobre el Examen de los Programas de Campo 1978-1979, que se refieren tanto al uso de insumos de los países en desarrollo en las actividades de campo de la FAO, como al empleo de las instituciones nacionales en una perspectiva mas amplia.
No es mi intención explayarme excesivamente sobre estos asuntos sobre los que ya ha habido una extensa discusión al considerarse antes el tema 13.
Los documentos en nuestras manos ponen de relieve - entre otras cosas - el establecimiento de un centro de acción en la Organización que ayude en la identificación de limitaciones dentro del ámbito de la CTPD y desarrolle nuevas ideas y enfoques para superarlas; y que siga de cerca los progresos que se obtengan en los campos de la agricultura y la alimentación con respecto a CTPD.
El Director General, naturalmente, ha recomendado a todas las unidades de la FAO, incluso a las Oficinas Regionales y a aquellas en los países, que aprovechando la oportunidad viable para promover la CTPD en sus respectivas áreas de competencia. Evidencia cabal de. esto emerge del amplio espectro de actividades y posibilidades sobre las cuales se hace alusión en el documento C 79/26 Suplemento 1.
El profundo compromiso de la FAO con la CTPD se verá nuevamente ilustrado en nuestra contribución a la Primera Reunión bienal Intergubernamental a Alto Nivel, convocada por el Administrador del PNUD para mayo de 1980, en la que se estudiarán los progresos obtenidos con respecto a la ejecución del Plan de Acción de Buenos Aires. Al mismo tiempo, estamos llevando a cabo encuestas sobre el terreno en Africa, con el fin de identificar y evaluar proyectos nacionales, regionales y subregionales en los cuales la FAO podría asistir, o ya asiste, en la promoción de CTPD en cuanto a producción de alimentos, procesamiento y mercadeo, ciencia y tecnología y desarrollo rural en general. Si estas encuestas lo demostrarán factible, se extenderían a la exploración del potencial para una cooperación entre los países africanos y otros en vías de desarrollo en las demás regiones.
Los temas de esta encuesta se seleccionaron - inicialmente - con el fin de hacer una contribución directa a la Conferencia de Expertos Africanos Gubernamentales convocada por el PNUD, con carácter de encuentro preparatorio, para la Reunión Intergubernamental a Alto Nivel a la cual me refiriera hace unos momentos.
Estos esfuerzos que hemos estado haciendo y que continuaremos aún con más vigor, podrían no tener el impacto deseado si los verdaderos actores - es decir los gobiernos y las instituciones de los países en desarrollo - no asumen un rol más activo en guiar nuestra obra.
Nosotros podemos - a lo sumo - respaldar los esfuerzos de los países en desarrollo para mancomunar sus experiencias y conocimientos sacando de ellas las ventajas que convengan, pero no podemos suplantarlos ni sustentarlos indefinidamente.
Los lazos institucionales entre los países en desarrollo mismos, fundamentados en intereses mutuos, son la única base para una cooperación funcional. Porque la esencia de la CTPD, Sr. Presidente, no está en la simple búsqueda de una repartición equitativa de expertos, o de firmas consultoras y otras instituciones en las actividades financiadas por agencias internacionales y de ayuda bilateral. Ella está, Sr. Presidente, en acercar entre sí esos expertos e instituciones para que determinen la validez de las estrategias de desarrollo y de los medios de ejecución existentes en relación con su herencia común y las estructuras socioeconómicas corrientes; está en aprovechar y fortalecer los esfuerzos de cada uno en zonas agroclimáticas idénticas; en reorientar los esquemas de cosechas y de mercado,
con miras a fortalecer la posición colectiva en los mercados internacionales, de productos básicos; en concebir empresas conjuntas para la mejor explotación y procesamiento de sus extensos recursos forestales y pesqueros; en reforzar su capacidad de negociación en asuntos económicos internacionales.
Todas éstas son tareas formidables, pero muy al alcance colectivo de los países interesados. Confío que la Comisión tomará debida cuenta de estos postulados básicos y que dará al Director General una guía clara en lo que se refiere a medidas ulteriores que la Organización pueda adoptar para estimular y fortalecer las iniciativas que los países en desarrollo tomen en estas direcciones.
N. ISLAM (Assistant Director-General, Economic and Social Policy Department): I entirely agree with my colleague Dr. Yriart that the TCDC and ECDC subjects under discussion here are closely related and complement each other, and deserve to be administered and operationally integrated.
For the information of the Conference, the Report of the Technical Consultation on Economic Cooperation among Developing Countries in Food and Agriculture which was held in Rome in the middle of 1979 is submitted to your Commission for your information. It is presented in Document C 79/27 and its corrigendum. A summary of the recommendations is placed at the beginning of the document. The consultation was convened by the Director-General in order to review progress and assess prospects of Economic and Technical Cooperation in the field of Food and Agriculture. The Consultation was expected to examine the operational implications of objectives and programmes already adopted in a large number of international conferences. It was also to help formulate recommendations for action to be taken by developing countries themselves by regional or sub-regional groupings or cooperative arrangements, and by international organizations including FAO.
We believe, and this view is shared by all the participants, that the Consultation was useful in enhancing the awareness and importance of economic cooperation among developing countries in the field of food and agriculture, and in providing an impetus towards concrete action. The Consultation considered that the achievement of food self-sufficiency should be adopted as a common objective for economic cooperation for developing countries. It called upon developing countries, with the assistance and support of the UN System, including FAO, to take the initiative and embark upon designing strategies and a feasible action programme. They recognized that the action programme would necessarily vary among regions and sub-regions according to specfic socio-economic and political conditions.
Among the important priority areas stressed by the Consultation, the following deserve special mention: identification and selection of key commodities in the production of which developing countries wish to cooperate; the expansion of pipelines of resource surveys, master plans, and prefeasibility studies at country - and inter-country levels, for the joint exploitation of resources.
Also important was the need for identification and preparation of projects for inter-country cooperation with a view towards securing the necessary financial assistance from the lending agencies. The multilateral and bilateral agencies were called upon by the Consultation to extend additional assistance for the financing of projects which promote economic cooperation among developing countries.
To illustrate a few recommendations for concrete action, the Consultation drew special attention to the need for strengthening existing intergovernmental organizations for the development of common rivers and lakes. Again, the promotion of collective self-reliance in food security was supported. The developing countries were requested to consider earmarking a part of their national reserves for regional and sub-regional uses after meeting urgent national requirements, and to seek mutually acceptable agreements on the location and building up of regional and sub-regional food reserves, with the help of donor countries and international organizations.
In so far as concrete follow-up action is concerned, the recommendations addressed to governments were perhaps the most crucial for further progress in this area. The Report recommends that the governments of the developing countries should consider designatary national focal points for identification, promotion and monitoring of ECDC programmes in food and agriculture of interest to them.
Moreover, they should organize consultations, meetings and seminars to create awareness among developing countries to draw up inter-country plans and programmes and to review progress made.
The existing integration and other functional cooperation arrangements were urged to intensity concrete cooperative activities in the field of food and agriculture.
The assistance by FAO and other United Nations organizations would be, by and large, contingent upon the prior initiative of the interested developing countries or their regional or sub-regional cooperation arrangements or organizations. This was also emphasized by the UNCTAD Resolution on the subject earlier on. Within the limits of its resources, FAO would be willing to help, on request, to identify common areas of cooperation and to help formulate projects for implementation.
CHAIRMAN: I would like to remind delegates that these two documents are mainly for information and I would not expect that we need to reopen the debate on the issue, as a full-scale debate has already been held on these two topics.
C. 0. KELLER SARMIENTO (Argentina): Si bien es cierto lo que acaba usted de expresar, señor Presidente, de que en diversas ocasiones hemos tenido oportunidad de referirnos al tema de la cooperación economica entre países en desarrollo, quiero expresar que mi país adjudica a este tema una vital importancia y, por lo tanto, formularemos algunos comentarios que estimamos pueden ser de utilidad para la Secretaria en torno a los documentos presentados.
Quisiéramos antes que nada agradecer especialmente a la Secretaría la excelente forma y contenido de estos documentos, C 79/26 y C 79/27. En primer lugar me referiré a algunos aspectos del documento 26. En los párrafos 6 y 7 se informa a la Conferencia sobre el establecimiento de un centro de acción en la organización y la inclusión de la cooperación técnica entre países en desarrollo en el Programa de Labores y Presupuestos para 1980-81, en los párrafos 8 a 10, así como la posibilidad de una mejor utilización de capacidades de los países en desarrollo en los Programas con la FAO y la promoción del CTPD, a nivel de país y de región. Nos complace especialmente el paulatino avance hacia la identificación de sectores dentro del ámbito de la agricultura y la alimentación, donde es susceptible de aplicarse, y en muchos casos, aunque el CTPD ha avanzado, este avance no es todo lo enérgico que hubiéramos deseado, pero por lo menos estamos progresando. En este sentido agradezco muy especialmente la presentación efectuada por el Doctor Yriart y quiero expresar que coincidimos plenamente con él en que la cooperación técnica y la cooperación económica se superponen y deben enfatizar su naturaleza complementaria. Esta es probablemente una tarea que se va a ir adjudicando la FAO nuevamente con carácter pio-nerístico en el sector. Compartimos la aspiración de que esta separación se diluya cada día más y más adelante desaparezca para poder concentrar esfuerzos y evitar duplicación de actividades.
Recogemos también con satisfacción el estado de alerta que nos señala el doctor Yriart y el Director General impartida a la Organización para detectar oportunidades y tratar de que todas las oficinas y departamentos de la FAO traten de cooperar para sumar esfuerzos y organizar el tema de la CTPD.
Coincidimos también con usted, doctor Yriart, en que los lazos institucionales entre los países son los vínculos naturales del CTPD, pero estos pueden ser ampliados y divulgados por las organizaciones como la FAO, y pensamos que esta es una tarea que compete a la FAO y es un concepto muy importante de sus actividades futuras.
En cuanto al establecimiento de un Centro de Acción, tal como fue dispuesto en la Recomendación 33 del Plan de Acción de Buenos Aires, y recomendada por el 19 período de sesiones de la Conferencia, y ratificado por el 75° Consejo, creo que es un elemento que tenemos que fortalecer y fortificar.
El documento C 79/26, Sup. 1, trae un interesante cuadro sobre actividades potenciales del CTPD. Nuevamente aquí vemos un loable esfuerzo por parte de la Organización, y por lo menos se está tratando de orientar e identificar áreas de acción. Pero tal como lo afirma el párrafo 3, entendemos que se trata de un primer paso en el cumplimiento de la función de catalizador de la FAO. Creemos que este Centro no es aún lo suficientemente fuerte como para encarar una labor orgánica, tal como se espera de ella.
El párrafo 4 señala el marco de referencia del cuadro propuesto y expresa que no se incluyen las posibilidades de cooperación bilateral. Creemos, en cambio, que sería muy útil contar también con esta información, pues creemos que la CTPD no debe limitarse a aspectos multilaterales sino que debe incluir, cuando cabe, aspectos de cooperación bilateral.
No abriremos juicio definitivo sobre este Ejercicio de la Secretaría hasta ver más adelante los primeros resultados. Consideramos que debe profundizarse, en especial, en detectar la disponibilidad de mecanismos e instrumentos del CTPD a nivel nacional, y sobre todo debe ampliarse a todas las regiones. En este sentido, desearíamos que se incluya también la region de América Latina, que no figura en ese cuadro, salvo la referencia un poco vaga en el área prioritaria de la acuicultura, contenida en el párrafo 8.
El párrafo 6 del documento C 79/26/Sup. 1, pide información a la Conferencia sobre las medidas que están tomando los estados miembros para cumplir el Plan de Acción de Buenos Aires. Como usted sabe, señor Presidente, mi país ha tenido siempre una posición de activa participación en la extension de las actividades del CTPD, pues considera que éstas son vitales para alcanzar la autosuficiencia global colectiva, tal como fuera consagrada en numerosas instancias, sea UNCTAD, o Asamblea General de las Naciones Unidas. Consideramos esta cuestión el gran tema del presente y del futuro, y un campo donde la cooperación dedicada y eficiente, la solidaridad, la acción imaginativa y constante abre el panorama más amplio de posibilidades a los países en desarrollo, sin deber depender de la adjudicación de excedentes o de ayuda de disponibilidades o de donaciones.
Debemos incrementar dramáticamente la acción de la FAO en la CTPD, y para ello, mi delegación formula una nueva exhortación a mis colegas aquí reunidos así como a la Secretaría. El Gobierno Argentino ha suscrito un acuerdo con el Programa de las Naciones Unidas para el Desarrollo titulado Nueva Dimension en la Cooperación, cuyo objetivo es sentar bases de mecanismos administrativos y financieros que permiten el mejor desenvolvimiento de la CTPD.
Se ha enviado una misión al Perú, a principios de esta año, vinculada al proyecto mencionado para incrementar la cooperación entre ambos países en el campo de la vitivinicultura, así como la producción lechera. Se está elaborando un proyecto de ley de creación del Fondo Nacional para actividades del CTPD. Tal como fuera anunciado oportunamente se ha encargado en publico y en privado de una tarea de releva-miento a fin de determinar el número de expertos y condiciones en que puede brindarse capacitación, atento a la extensa e importante experiencia argentina en materia agropecuaria.
En este sentido se han identificado interesantes posibilidades dentro de las maquinarias agrícolas que cuentan con condiciones altamente competitivas, acordes con las necesidades de numerosos países en desarrollo. En este sentido, nos permitimos sugerir que los representantes de la FAO, las representaciones de la FAO, sean a nivel nacional o regional, dispongan de los mecanismos administrativos que permitan incluir en los registros de la Organización y con la mayor precisión posible, servicios que ofrecen en materia agropecuaria los países en desarrollo y determinar su complementación con el catálogo de servicios de orientación informativa.
Como primera medida para ello, y dentro del aceptado concepto general de decentralización de las actividades de la FAO, consideramos esencial el potenciamiento de las oficinas regionales de la FAO en este sector, para promover una acción eficaz destinada a identificar actividades del CTPD.
Nos complace también la afirmación del señor Yriart sobre la preparación que está efectuando la FAO para la reunión intergubernamental de alto nivel, convocada por la administración del PNUD para 1980. La participación de la FAO en ésta es importante y atribuimos grandes esperanzas a los resultados de la misma.
Por último, coincidimos plenamente con el doctor Islam y con las conclusiones de la Consulta Técnica de Cooperación Económica entre países en desarrollo. Queremos destacar que participamos activamente en esa reunión que fue ejemplo para las actividades de la FAO, y que las prioridades establecidas son un punto de partida adecuado para todas las actividades de la FAO en el sector, así como las recomendaciones a los respectivos gobiernos.
CHAIRMAN: Before I give the floor to Mexico I wish to remind delegates that there have been exhaustive discussions on ECDC and TCDC. I appeal also for brevity on the salient points.
F. RUIZ ORTIS (Mexico): La delegación mexicana comparte plenamente la preocupación de la FAO por aplicar las medidas compiladas en el Plan de Acción de Buenos Aires, y sancionado por el Consejo de la FAO en su 75° período de sesiones.
Confiamos en que el Centro de Acción que ha establecido el señor Director General en la dirección de programación de las actividades de campo de la FAO, cumpla eficazmente la promoción de la CTPD. auspiciando la mayor utilización posible de los servicios e insumos de un país en desarrollo en beneficio de otro; particularmente en el caso de la contratación de expertos.
A tal efecto, consideramos de fundamental importancia que la FAO intensifique sus esfuerzos al difundir las convocatorias de presentación de ofertas para la ejecución de los proyectos, dentro del esquema del CTPD, a fin de que los propios países en desarrollo cuenten con las más amplias oportunidades de participación.
México tiene algunas experiencias en la prestación de cooperación técnica a algunos países, particularmente del área latinoamericana, y reitera ahora su mejor disposición para participar activamente en los esfuerzos que los países en desarrollo están realizando en materia de cooperación internacional.
En la perspectiva de esa experiencia, hemos podido detectar que una de las principales limitaciones que enfrentan las actividades del CTPD, es la insuficiente capacidad de financiamiento para ejecutar los proyectos, una vez identificadas y establecidas las prioridades de desarrollo, por lo que sería de gran utilidad cualquier apoyo que pueda ofrecer la FAO en este campo específico, para concitar el concurso de los organismos financieros internacionales y de los países en desarrollo, en apoyo de las necesidades crediticias de las naciones en vías de desarrollo; como por ejemplo, avalando ante los posibles financiadores la factibilidad técnica de los proyectos presentados.
Creemos firmemente, que la buena marcha del CTPD depende no solamente de la voluntad política de los países en general, sino de la disponibilidad financiera que tengan los interesados, ya que si bien son naciones jurídicamente iguales que tratan de aprovechar entre sí las diferencias existentes en cuanto a sus niveles de desarrollo relativo, en su condición de países en desarrollo tienen como rasgo de identidad común, la insuficiencia de recursos financieros; aspecto en el cual creemos que la FAO puede jugar un papel muy importante intercediendo ante la Comunidad Internacional.
Antes de concluir, mi delegación desea también intervenir respecto al informe sobre la consulta técnica sobre Cooperación Económica entre países en desarrollo, por lo que en su oportunidad, hará uso de la palabra.
Sra. Dra. G. SOTO CARRERO (Cuba): Permítame, en primer lugar, y por su amable conducto, agradecer a los doctores Felipe Yriart y señor Islam por la excelente presentación que han hecho de los temas que discutimos. Sus magníficas exposiciones serán de utilidad para los debates en estos aspectos que, como dijo el señor Yriart, están totalmente vinculados entre sí.
Mi delegación considera que, si bien la cooperación técnica y económica entre países en desarrollo, no es un término nuevo, sí es un concepto que cada vez cobra mayor importancia en el sistema de las Naciones Unidas, como un elemento para el desarrollo económico y social de nuestros países.
En este aspecto, entendemos que la FAO puede considerarse a la vanguardia de las acciones emprendidas por el sistema de las Naciones Unidas. El hecho de identificar y difundir nuevas ideas, conceptos y métodos para promover el CTPD en los sectores agropecuarios, forestales y pesqueros, ha sido una labor muy productiva para nuestros países, así como también los esfuerzos realizados por la FAO para dar cumplimiento al plan de acción de Buenos Aires, incluida la creación del Centro de Acción propuesto por esa Conferencia.
Muy importante ha sido la inclusión de orientaciones específicas en el Programa de Labores y Presupuesto para 1980-81 para que las actividades de la FAO se concentren con más fuerza a la prestación de asistencia a los estados miembros para el desarrollo y fortalecimiento de sus propias capacidades, con objeto de satisfacer las necesidades básicas de su población, en aquellas esferas en que, como es lógico, sean de competencia de la FAO.
El incremento de la contratación de expertos provenientes de los países en desarrollo, que se plantea en el párrafo 13 del documento C 79/26 es una buena muestra de la importancia que le da la FAO a nuestros países y la confianza que deposita en ellos.
Con relación a la adquisición de servicios, mi delegación considera que no deberían referirse solamente a equipos, sino también se deberían tratar de incrementar las compras de productos procedentes de países en desarrollo; y decimos incrementar, puesto que la FAO también ha utilizado esta vía, y exhortamos a que se siga utilizando.
En la cooperación a nivel regional, efectivamente se deben compaginar las capacidades de los países de la región con sus necesidades.
Otros elementos importantes en los cuales consideramos que la FAO puede jugar un papel fundamental, es la difusión de nuevos conocimientos y experiencias de países en desarrollo, entre los demás países, que en mayor o menor grado, tienen que abordar problemas semejantes y en condiciones socieconómicas y hasta ecológicas parecidas, tal como lo expresara el doctor Yriart en su exposición.
Estos aspectos pudieran ser entre otros, medidas de control de las plagas, enfermedades de las plantas y de los animales, técnicas de conservación de suelos y agua, en las zonas áridas y semiáridas , mejoras genéticas del ganado vacuno, etc....
Mi delegación considera que el CTPD es indispensable para el desarrollo de programas dirigidos a estos aspectos que hemos mencionado, y otros que, tal vez se nos escapen en estos momentos, pero que podríamos enmarcar en tres grandes grupos.
Primero: Programas de control integrado de plagas y enfermedades.
Segundo: Programas conjuntos o coordinados encaminados al control de las enfermedades de los animales.
Tercero: Programas para crear centros y redes de producción e investigación para cultivos básicos.
Con relación a la cooperación económica entre países en desarrollo, nuestra delegación considera que la importancia de la misma está dada, entre otros factores, por ser uno de los elementos de la Estrategia Internacional para el Desarrollo, que puede contribuir en gran medida a lograr el proceso equilibrado y equitativo del desarrollo económico global que todos deseamos.
Las propias Naciones Unidas, en su Resolución 33/195 de la Asamblea General, insta a los países desarrollados y a las organizaciones del sistema, a que proporcionen el apoyo adecuado a los programas de Cooperación Económica entre Países en Desarrollo.
Efectivamente, consideramos que es urgente que se concierten acuerdos de cooperación entre los países para lograr una explotación óptima de sus posibilidades de producción agrícola, pesquera, forestal, etc.
Mucho pudiera lograrse en estos sectores, si además de tener establecidas las posibilidades de proyectos a desarrollar, se contara con la voluntad política de los países cooperantes para obtener apoyo, ya que además de que la CEPD representa un paso necesario en el proceso del logro de la autosuficiencia colectiva y del desarrollo de las economías de los países en desarrollo, es un importante elemento en la lucha por establecer el Nuevo Orden Económico Internacional.
Nuestra Delegación estima que la CTPD debe acelerarse mediante la adopción de medidas más dinámicas, especialmente planes y propuestas realistas y viables de interés vital para los países en desarrollo y mediante la iniciación a nivel nacional de aquellas medidas políticas que mejoren la calidad y eficacia de esos planes.
Como un ejemplo de estas acciones pudiéramos sugerir que se estudie y analice la posibilidad de fomentar la creación de nuevas Asociaciones de Productores/Exportadores de Materias Primas cuya exportación le interesa a los países en desarrollo, así como fortalecer las ya existentes, exhortando a la incorporación como miembros de estas asociaciones a países productores/exportadores que aún no han ingresado en ellas.
En materia de comercio, quizá sería recomendable reiterar la conveniencia de estudiar el establecimiento de otras empresas multinacionales de comercialización tan importantes para nuestros países.
En la Región Latinoamericana se ha dado gran importancia a la CTPD. Un ejemplo concreto, entre otros, es la reciente creación bajo los auspicios del Sistema Economico Latinoamericano, de la empresa MULTIFER, para la comercialización de fertilizantes en la región, la cual, sin duda, será de gran beneficio para nuestros países, ya que como todos conocemos, el incremento del precio de los fertilizantes perjudica grandemente la producción agrícola de nuestros países.
En otras materias, como por ejemplo el transporte, que tantas dificultades ofrece a los países en desarrollo, para transportar algunas veces hasta alimentos de primerísima necesidad, consideramos que esta Comisión debe ratificar la necesidad de crear empresas y otras facilidades conjuntas de transporte marítimo, aéreo y terrestre; nacionales, regionales y subregionales, lo cual sería de un beneficio considerable para los países en desarrollo.
En materia de agricultura y alimentación, consideramos que debe tomarse muy en cuenta el Plan de Acción aprobado por la Conferencia Mundial de Reforma Agraria y Desarrollo Rural, en cuyo cumplimiento la FAO tiene un papel fundamental.
En materia de pesca, consideramos que deben iniciarse de inmediato los estudios de factibilidad para la creación de empresas multinacionales pesqueras entre los países en desarrollo interesados. La FAO pudiera seguir haciendo contribuciones a estos estudios y conjuntamente con el PNUD y otras organizaciones financieras continuar fortaleciendo los trabajos relacionados con esta esfera de coooperación y formulación de proyectos regionales, interregionales o globales que soporten técnica y económicamente el logro de los objetivos propuestos.
Estas son las ideas que mi delegación quisiera fueran tomadas en cuenta por esta Comisión, además de reiterar nuevamente nuestro apoyo al informe de la útilísima consulta técnica sobre cooperación económica entre los países en desarrollo en materia de agricultura y alimentación que la FAO convocó en el pasado mes de junio.
Para finalizar, permítame expresar algunas consideraciones de nuestra Delegación sobre la cooperación técnica y económica entre países en desarrollo, analizada en términos generales.
Consideramos que la misma debe aumentar bajo el más estricto criterio de solidaridad.
Es imprescindible agotar las posibilidades de complernentariedad que tienen nuestras economías. Esto no quiere decir que aspiramos a una autarquía imposible. La interrelación que hoy existe en los aspectos económicos mundiales lo impide, y la cooperación internacional, al propio tiempo que aumenta entre nuestros países, para lo cual las posibilidades son muy amplias, debe también aumentar con los países desarrollados, pero nunca sobre las bases injustas en que hoy descansa.
Es necesario que se pongan en juego todas las posibilidades y recursos de esta parte considerable e importante de la humanidad que somos los países en desarrollo para incorporarla a la corriente general de los recursos de la economía que por su parte puedan movilizar los países de gran potencial económico.
CHAIRMAN: I would like to call to the attention of delegates that the two topics are inter-related and interventions advisedly should include comments on these two topics combined. If some delegations feel very strongly about certain aspects they could communicate with the Secretariat in writing.
The meeting rose at 13.00 hours
La séance est levée à 13 h 00
Se levanta la sesión a las 13.00 horas
