On the eve of the 45th Independence Anniversary, Vanuatu’s Acting Prime Minister and Minister responsible for Biosecurity, the Honorable Ian Wilson Toagalana, signed the contract with Dr. Michael Anthony Baer, as the new Principal Veterinary Officer under the Department of Biosecurity Vanuatu, for a three-year term.
In a very brief remark following the signing, the Acting Prime Minister stressed that Vanuatu needs to fill this position given it is pivotal in Vanuatu’s export trade.
Dr. Baer’s appointment on the 21st of July 2025 marks a strong step forward for Veterinary services, animal health and livestock production throughout Vanuatu.
On the occasion, the Director General for the Ministry of Agriculture Livestock Forestry & Biosecurity (MALFB), Timothy Tumukon said this appointment will strengthen our national veterinary services such as improving national disease surveillance, clinical response, and livestock extension support across the country. And is crucial in raising the overall standard of animal health and welfare in both commercial and smallholder systems. This role will contribute to boosting livestock productivity and unlocking new market access opportunities for Vanuatu’s premium beef exports.
Dr Baer’s contract signing was witnessed by the representatives of the MALFB Executive including the Director General for MALFB Timothy Tumukon, First Political Advisor the Minster MALFB Jack Loughman, Director for the Department for Agriculture & Rural Development Antoine Ravo, Director for the Department of Livestock Lonny Bong, the Acting Director for the Department of Biosecurity Lilly Fatdal, and the Principal Biosecurity officer Lindon Tari.
Acting Prime Minister and Minister responsible for Biosecurity, Honorable Ian Wilson exchange the contract with Dr Baer.