Online Reporter
Precious Manomano-Herald Reporter
THE Government has intensified border inspections for live animals and animal products as part of a strengthened national biosecurity drive aimed at preventing the entry and spread of major livestock diseases that threaten Zimbabwe’s economy.
The tightening of controls comes as authorities move to protect the national herd ahead of the rainy season, when disease risks typically increase.
Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) chief director, Dr Pious Makaya, said the department is prioritising surveillance and control of high-impact diseases such as tick-borne illnesses, foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), and Newcastle disease.
“As the rainy season starts, which typically increases worm prevalence among livestock, the DVS is implementing measures such as deworming programmes,” said Dr Makaya.
“To further reduce the incidence of tick-borne diseases, DVS plans to improve the frequency of dipping interventions.
“These efforts are essential for safeguarding the health of livestock and ensuring a stable supply of animal products.”
Alongside disease control, the DVS is also working to expand trade opportunities for small ruminants.
Dr Makaya said the department has submitted a dossier seeking recognition of Zimbabwe’s freedom from Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), a move expected to open regional and international market access.
Zimbabwe is also targeting a rabies-free status by 2030, supported by another dossier submitted for formal control recognition.
Anthrax vaccination campaigns remain ongoing in response to outbreaks such as the recent incident in Kariba.
Dr Makaya said vaccination and awareness teams are active on the ground to keep communities informed and protected.
He added that the department aims not only to protect animal health, but also to bolster the livestock sector’s economic viability.
To this end, 100 000 cattle are currently being vaccinated against January disease (Theileriosis), while a further 40 000 are receiving doses for babesiosis and anaplasmosis in high-risk zones.
“The vaccines for these tick-borne illnesses are being produced locally, ensuring a continuous supply and preventing potential disease surges,” he said.
Government has also rolled out a Livestock Production and Health Summer Plan focused on strengthening the national herd.
Key interventions include intensified control of tick-borne diseases through weekly dipping, targeted vaccinations for high-risk diseases such as anthrax, and improvements in livestock nutrition, water provision and breeding programmes.
With rising temperatures expected to increase tick activity, the DVS is implementing a combined strategy of mass vaccination and mandatory weekly dipping—an upgrade from the previous fortnightly schedule.
The shift is expected to improve control of tick populations during the wetter months and reduce disease outbreaks.
