The combination of qualitative risk analysis and risk mapping are key approaches to assess the risk of introducing and disseminating FMD and similar transboundary animal diseases (FAST diseases) from the neighbouring countries to the European Union (EU), to control the potential spread of the FAST diseases across their borders and to support the implementation of risk-based activities. 

To enhance the capacity of North African countries in the prevention and control of FAST diseases, EuFMD is carring out specialized training on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applied to risk assessment, in partnership with CIRAD and with Avia-GIS.  

The objectives of this training are:

• To optimize the veterinary services resources in risk analysis and risk mapping for the development of advanced disease risk-based surveillance programs, focused on specific risks factors, and improve the effectiveness of control measures of the FAST diseases.  
• To strengthen and operationalize the risk mapping, GIS and spatial modelling community of practice in North Africa.