AU-IBAR is a specialized technical office of the African Union Commission (AUC), headed by the Director who reports directly to the AUC through the Department of Rural Economy and Agriculture (DREA). Founded in 1951 to study the epidemiological situation and fight rinderpest in Africa, AU-IBAR9;s mandate covers all aspects of animal resources, including livestock, fisheries and wildlife, across the entire African continent. We also fills a unique and strategic niche by working at the continental and regional levels, with the RECs being key partners. We provide leadership in the development of animal resources for Africa. OUR HISTORY Established as the Interafrican Bureau of Epizootic Diseases (IBED) in 1951 to study the epidemiological situation of and commence the fight against rinderpest in Africa, the organization today bears the name African Union Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR). This name-change reflects its broader mandate, which is to support and coordinate the improved utilization o