Online Reporter
Theseus Mauruki Shambare
ZIMBABWE has surpassed the one million vaccination target of cattle against anthrax, a major boost to the Government’s Early Warning-Early Action strategy aimed at protecting livestock, rural livelihoods and public health from climate-induced disease outbreaks.
The country has vaccinated 1 025 063 cattle, exceeding the national target ahead of the 2026/27 summer season, when the anticipated El Niño phenomenon is expected to heighten the risk of anthrax outbreaks, particularly in drought-prone districts.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development, Professor Obert Jiri, said last week the vaccination campaign was central to the Government’s proactive approach to building a climate-resilient livestock sector.
“Zimbabwe has reached a major milestone in safeguarding livestock and public health after vaccinating 1 025 063 cattle against anthrax, surpassing the national 2026 vaccination target,” he said.
“The successful vaccination campaign forms part of the country’s national preparedness strategy for the 2026-2027 summer season, when climatic conditions associated with the anticipated El Niño phenomenon are expected to increase the risk of anthrax outbreaks.”
Prof Jiri said the achievement reflected the Government’s shift towards anticipatory action, with the Early Warning-Early Action framework focusing on identifying and addressing climate-related disease risks before they escalate into outbreaks.
Chief Director of Veterinary Services Dr Pious Makaya said Zimbabwe had identified 24 anthrax hotspot districts, including Kariba, Hurungwe, Binga, Buhera, Chiredzi and Chipinge, where vaccination has been prioritised.
