The acting Obuasi Municipal Officer of the Veterinary Service Department (VSD) has been rewarded for his diligence and high sense of duty.

The alertness of Mr. Kofi Agyemang Boateng led to the early detection of the outbreak of Avian Influenza (bird flu) in the municipality and his swift response to contain its spread.

For this, he has been presented with cash gift of GH?1,000 at a ceremony in Kumasi.

Retired Veterinary Officer, Dr. Agyemang-Atuahene Kontor, who donated the money, said this was meant to inspire workers of the department "to give it their all" to protect the health of the people.

He asked them to continue remaining vigilant to deal with bird and animal disease outbreaks.

This, he said, was the way to safeguard the farmers’ investment and increase animal production to meet the protein requirement of the population.

He appealed for more support to the VSD to enable it to perform well.

Dr. Kofi Quansah-Filson, the Ashanti Regional Director, urged the officers to continue to educate and create awareness among key stakeholders about the bird flu and its control.

He reminded farmers to report suspected cases to the nearest veterinary office, adding that, any delay could result in irreversible losses.

Mr. Boateng said he was grateful and promised to work with passion.