South African animal welfare organisations are being equipped with new tools, recognition, and global support to strengthen the country’s fight against rabies.
Through a partnership between FOUR PAWS and the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC), the Rabies Centres of Excellence (RCEs) initiative has been introduced locally. The programme recognises organisations that meet international standards for rabies elimination and community engagement, while connecting them to a global hub of expertise.
In June, more than 60 national animal welfare groups took part in an online workshop led by FOUR PAWS and GARC. The session shared practical guidance on how to plan and run effective vaccination campaigns, engage communities in rabies prevention, collect and report data aligned with global standards, and tap into mentorship and collaboration opportunities through GARC’s network.
Dr. André Coetzer, CEO of GARC, said the initiative is about ensuring real impact on the ground: “By building RCEs locally, we can ensure that vaccination campaigns are effective, data-driven, and reach every corner of our communities.”
Rabies remains almost 100% fatal once symptoms appear, yet it is entirely preventable. By giving grassroots organisations access to digital surveillance tools, funding opportunities, and global visibility, the RCE framework aims to close the gap between prevention knowledge and community action.
“Rabies elimination is a community effort,” said Fiona Miles, Director of FOUR PAWS South Africa. “The RCE initiative gives local groups the recognition, training, and tools they need to protect both animals and people.”
Organisations are encouraged to apply to become an RCE, while communities can take part in vaccination drives and awareness campaigns. Individuals can raise awareness by sharing resources and using hashtags such as #WorldRabiesDay #WRD2025 #ActNow #EndRabiesTogether #OneHealth #YouMeCommunity.
For more information, visit www.four-paws.org.za.
