23 January 2013 - Some 40 animals received treatment during a free veterinary camp conducted by the UNMISS Indian Battalion in the Upper Nile state capital Malakal today.

The one-day camp, officially opened by state Minister for Animal Resources and Fisheries Joseph Deng Faraj, is another in a series of free veterinary and medical camps the battalion has held in the state over the last two years.

In addition to treating over 14,500 animals last year, the battalion trained about 30 local veterinarians in basic knowledge and best practices.

Mr. Faraj welcomed continued support from the Indian contingent, especially given the importance of livestock to livelihoods of South Sudanese citizens.

"Animal resources are an alternative (source of income) if directed in the right channel," he said.

The battalion is also operating a veterinary clinic at Upper Nile University in Malakal to build the capacity of students enrolled at the university's veterinary college.