Councillors in Bahrain are working to reopen the Budaiya veterinary clinic with a new plan that includes a small service fee. This initiative is seen as crucial for local farms and essential for Bahrain’s food security. The original proposal, which was suggested by Council member Mohammed Saad Al Doseri, aimed at reopening the only free veterinary clinic on Budaiya Highway that closed in 2017. Livestock owners have been facing challenges since the closure, as they have had to rely on private veterinary clinics, which are often expensive. Following discussions with breeders, the Northern Municipal Council has resubmitted the plan with a small fee, as requested by the breeders. This move is expected to support livestock farming and ensure a stable food supply in the long run.
The decision to add a small fee to the veterinary clinic services is driven by the high costs and limited access to essential medicines faced by livestock owners. The monopoly held by private pharmacies on certain drugs has led to inflated prices, making it challenging for owners to obtain necessary medications for their animals. By reopening the clinic, the aim is to address these challenges and ensure that emergency treatment is readily available when needed. The plan has received support from the Financial and Legal Committee, as it aims to expand public services, secure government funds, and provide vital care for animals. In addition to providing regular check-ups and breeding advice, the clinic will offer affordable and accessible veterinary care, filling the current gap in services while safeguarding Bahrain’s food supply.
The plan to reopen the Budaiya veterinary clinic is now in the hands of the Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture for further action. The proposal has been well received by breeders, who believe that the small fee is a reasonable compromise to ensure the sustainability of livestock farming in Bahrain. The revised plan reflects the breeders’ wishes and aims to preserve animal health, thereby enhancing Bahrain’s food security. The clinic is expected to offer essential services that were lacking after the closure of the free clinic, contributing to a more sustainable and secure food supply chain in the country. With the support of the Financial and Legal Committee, the reopened clinic could significantly benefit both livestock owners and the overall food security of Bahrain.
There have been concerns raised about the possibility of the fees discouraging livestock owners from obtaining vaccinations for their animals. However, Zainah Jassim, Vice Chairperson of the Northern Municipal Council, assured that the revised plan is in line with the breeders’ requests and aims to provide quality care without prohibitive costs. The goal is to ensure that animal health is maintained and that Bahrain’s food security is upheld, all while making essential veterinary services accessible and affordable. By reopening the Budaiya veterinary clinic with a new fee structure, the authorities are taking proactive steps to support livestock owners and secure the country’s food supply for the future. This initiative is seen as a lifeline for local farms and a crucial step towards enhancing Bahrain’s agricultural sector.
