This archive report was first published on 5 June 2020.
On June 5, 2020, Boehringer Ingelheim unveiled the 'Last Mile' app, a digital platform that enables livestock farmers in Kenya to access essential extension services from their mobile phones.
The 'Last Mile' initiative is an integrated program that aims to address animal health challenges by making animal medical resources available in hard-to-reach areas. The program targets ruminants, such as sheep, goats, cattle, and poultry.
Established by Boehringer Ingelheim, with support from the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed) and funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, 'Last Mile' aims to bridge current gaps in access, availability, and awareness of animal healthcare solutions for smallholder farmers in Africa.
The program's mission is to create long-lasting partnerships with the local farming community in an effort to establish and drive sustainable businesses that are integrated into the wider national economy.
Initially launched in Kenya, the program has also been rolled out in other key markets throughout Africa, including Cameroon, Nigeria, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ethiopia, with plans to expand to Tanzania.
The 'Last Mile' app enables field force and teams to manage their day-to-day activities and work more effectively with farmers, retailers, and veterinarians. The app's main features include a calendar section, farm and retail visit sections, training parts covering diseases and product information, and surveys to gather specific information about the target market.
According to Emilie Veillat, Key Account Manager and 'Last Mile' application lead, The Veterinary Public Health Center at Boehringer Ingelheim, the 'Last Mile' initiative is an important part of the company's vision and aims to support communities as well as improve both human and animal health.
“The 'Last Mile' initiative is an important part of the company's vision and aims to support our communities as well as improve both human and animal health. I am pleased we have launched this mobile app which is not only critical for accurate data collection and monitoring, but it also helps teams stay connected, particularly in these challenging times of the pandemic,” she said.
