Introducing South African Animal Welfare Groups to “Rabies Centres of Excellence”
Empowering South African animal welfare groups to lead in global rabies elimination through RCEs
FOUR PAWS in collaboration with the Global Alliance for Rabies Control (GARC) are working together with organisations in South Africa to be part of a global network of communities against rabies through an initiative called ‘Rabies Centres of Excellence’. A Rabies Centre of Excellence is a formal recognition provided to any exemplary organisation that is involved in progressing rabies elimination efforts in their community. More specifically, RCEs are recognised due to their community engagement and the quality of their work. RCE should aspire to be a leading organisation that drives rabies elimination efforts using international best practices, which other rabies stakeholders can emulate. In so doing, RCEs maintain a high standard in all their work including:
- Using local knowledge and experience to create the most effective, tailored approaches to elimination of rabies in their communities
- Using only high-quality vaccines
- Driving international best practices, and
- Fostering active collaboration
Benefits of Being a Recognised RCE
Form part of a broader network of organisations:
RCEs form part of a global network of like-minded organisations called the Communities Against Rabies (CAR) initiative. The CAR initiative is a coordinated approach that unites NGOs, the public, and private sectors generating much needed momentum in addressing the “last mile” of rabies elimination.
International recognition:
The work of all RCEs is continuously promoted using dedicated social media channels, raising their profile on the international stage and highlighting their achievements.
Improved funding opportunities:
Potential grant makers, funders and donor organisations will be encouraged to support RCEs whenever the opportunity arises. Therefore, RCEs, will be more likely to receive additional funding and support.
Surveillance:
RCEs will have access to the latest and most innovative digital data tools from GARC (including training in their use) that enable real time data analysis for improved planning, programmatic implementation and monitoring and evaluation. These free surveillance tools can also facilitate active data sharing for improved coordination and collaboration with other local partners including other RCEs.
Best Practices:
RCEs will be provided guidance, protocols, Standard Operating Procedures, materials and documents on standardised efforts and approaches, aligned with international best practices to ensure that RCEs operate at the highest standards.
Education:
RCEs will have free access to certified online courses, an extensive library education and sensitisation materials, covering all aspects of rabies elimination. These materials can be localised for specific communities in which RCEs operate, including translation into local languages.
Access to GARC expertise:
All RCEs will have access to GARC’s team of skilled, dedicated rabies professionals who can advise and guide the delivery and implementation of rabies elimination efforts.
Criteria to be Recognised as an RCE
- Pledge your organisation and fill in this form.
- Actively implement GARC Data Tools.
- Have a minimum of 3 recognised Dog Health Champions as part of your team.
If you have any more questions about the benefits of becoming a Rabies Centre of Excellence or need more information, please email: office@four-paws.org.za
