AU-IBAR conducts a training of trainers on science-based methods and the use of scientific methods in standard setting for English-speaking countries of ECOWAS.

BANJUL, The Gambia– AU-IBAR through the Projects, Reinforcing the Veterinary Governance in Africa (VET-GOV) and Participation of African Nations in SPS Standard-setting Organisations (PANSPSO), held a training workshop on science-based methods and the use of scientific methods in standard setting from 13 to 15 August 2012 in Banjul, The Gambia.

Participants at the workshop

The workshop aimed at building and strengthening the capacity of the SPS stakeholders for their effective participation in meetings where standards on animal health, plant health and food safety standards are discussed and adopted and to equip them with skills to conduct further trainings in their countries.

The workshop was opened by Mr. Sherrifo Bojang, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture in the presence of Mrs Fatim Njie, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Trade : "I sincerely hope that this training will contribute significantly to the building of national capacities of all stakeholders involve in SPS issues to fully participate in international standard setting and for enhance implementation of relevant international standards on animal health, plant health and food safety. I also hope that participants will make maximum use of the opportunity."

At the end of the workshop, participants were issued with training materials, the STDF film on Trading Safely as well as certificate of participation.

VET-GOV and PANSPSO are European Union-funded projects that are being implemented in All African Union Member States.