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Government, in partnership with Britain, has launched an initiative called Zambia Animal Health Systems Strengthening project meant to enhance the health and welfare of livestock and fisheries in the country.
The project aims to enhance Zambia’s animal and aquatic health systems through various means, according to Fisheries and Livestock Minister, Makozo Chikote.
Chikote at the launch of the project on Monday in Lusaka explained that this was not limited to improving veterinary services, animal and fisheries disease surveillance and capacity building for stakeholders across the country.
He said the project would also focus on training animal and aquatic health professionals, disseminating best practices and strengthening disease mitigation efforts.
“By investing in these areas, we aim to bolster the resilience of our fisheries and livestock sector, mitigate the impact of animal and aquatic diseases and enhance the productivity and quality of our livestock and fisheries sector.
“This is in line with government policy to enhance sanitary conditions and reduce disease incidence, thereby facilitating Zambia’s access to regional and international markets,” he said.
Chikote said United Kingdom government’s support for this project underscored the shared commitment to transforming the fisheries and livestock sub-sector.
Commenting on the development, British High Commissioner to Zambia, Nicholas Woolley, noted that the project aimed to work with relevant authorities in Zambia to build resilient health systems and protect against known and emerging diseases.
Woolley said progress made so far, included the recruitment of dedicated Zambian staff.
“Moving forward, it is crucial that we all work diligently to ensure the success of this project.
By improving animal security but also safeguard livelihoods and the environment in Zambia,” he said.
Meanwhile, Food and Agriculture Organisation country representative, Suse Filippini, said the institution was committed to see how it could develop synergies with the project.
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