World Rabies Day
Today, 28 September, is World Rabies Day.
🇲🇿 In Mozambique, rabies still kills. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Environment and Fisheries, there were over 22,000 dog bites and 35 rabies deaths in 2023, and nearly 20,000 bites and 31 deaths in 2024. In the first half of 2025 alone there were 9,133 bites and 14 deaths. Children under 15 are the most at risk.
Rabies is 100% preventable. Almost every human case begins with a dog bite, so vaccinating dogs is the most effective way to protect people.
🌍 One Health
In communities living alongside parks and reserves, people, dogs and wildlife share the same landscape. A study in Limpopo National Park found that almost 9 in 10 households keep dogs, mostly to guard their fields. Only about 6% could show proof of vaccination. Most dogs roam freely and cross paths with jackals, mongooses and wild dogs.
The African wild dog is one of Africa's most endangered carnivores, and rabies spilling over from domestic dogs can wipe out entire packs. This year MWA's veterinary team recovered and returned 11 wild dogs to Karingani Game Reserve. Vaccinating the dogs in neighbouring communities protects wildlife too.
đź’‰ MWA's work so far in 2026:
269 dogs vaccinated against rabies
5 communities across MatutuĂne, Namaacha and Moamba
3 sterilisations
đź“Ť Namaacha: 4th consecutive year, with 126 dogs vaccinated
đź“Ť Incomati Rengue & Mazavela: 98% coverage
đź“Ť Maputo National Park: working with buffer communities, reaching 94 dog owners
Mozambique has committed to "Zero by 30": no human deaths from dog-mediated rabies by 2030. Every vaccinated dog counts. Thank you to every community member who brought their dogs.
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