Ghana to vaccinate 25,000 dogs and cats against rabies for free
In Ghana, the Veterinary Services Directorate of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture has launched a nationwide campaign to provide free rabies vaccinations to 25,000 dogs and cats in designated high-risk areas.
The campaign will run in September
As MyJoyOnline reports, the campaign will run throughout September 2026. It is part of Ghana's efforts to achieve zero human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030.
The initiative is also timed to coincide with World Rabies Month 2026, held under the slogan “Stronger Together.” After the free vaccination period ends, pet owners will have to pay the established fees for vaccinations.
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Informing animal owners
The campaign includes outreach work in schools, religious institutions and communities, as well as the distribution of materials through traditional media and social media. Educational videos and audio messages are planned to be distributed in Twi, Ga, Ewe and Hausa.
The Veterinary Services Directorate stressed that dogs and cats must be vaccinated against rabies every year. Citizens were urged to seek medical assistance immediately after an animal bite or scratch and report it to the nearest veterinary centre.
The agency noted that rabies is fatal in nearly 100% of cases after symptoms appear, but it can be prevented through timely vaccination. It also warned that failing to vaccinate a pet may constitute an offence under the applicable local government by-laws.
