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The Veterinary Association of Zambia (VAZ) has expressed concern over the continued use of caged wild animals for public exhibition at agricultural shows and fairs across the country.
The Association has called on the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) to demonstrate leadership by adopting a policy prohibiting such practices at future public events.
VAZ President, Dr. Malcolm Chiyoba, told Zambia Monitor in statement in Lusaka that wild animals are not mere spectacles and should not be subjected to unnatural confinement.
He said the Association had observed, both in the past and at the just-ended 97th Zambia Agriculture and Commercial Show in Lusaka, the display of live wild animals — including lions and vultures — in confined, unnatural enclosures.
“This practice is inhumane, outdated, and inconsistent with modern principles of animal welfare, ethical wildlife stewardship, and conservation,” Chiyoba said.
He noted that wild animals were sentient beings with complex physical, psychological, and behavioral needs that cannot be met in small cages or artificial environments.
Prolonged exposure to noise, crowds, and unnatural stimuli, he added, causes immense stress, discomfort, and fear, which can result in long-term physical and psychological harm.
“We are particularly alarmed by credible reports that some of these animals are sedated to suppress their natural behaviors and responses to stress,” Chiyoba said.
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He said: “This is unethical, medically dangerous, and creates a false impression of docility, putting public safety at further risk.”
Chiyoba stressed that caging wild animals for public display is exploitative rather than educational, sending the wrong message to society — especially children — that it is acceptable to treat wildlife as objects of entertainment.
He further warned that exhibiting predators such as lions in populated, unsecured settings poses serious safety risks, as any breach of containment, or even rumors of escape, could trigger panic and potential harm to the public.
The VAZ has urged show organizers, exhibitors, and the DNPW to end the practice immediately.
“DNPW, as the custodian of Zambia’s wildlife, should use such platforms to highlight conservation successes, promote tourism, and educate the public about wildlife protection — not to facilitate the drugging and caging of animals for entertainment or awards,” Chiyoba said.
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