Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
ZIMBABWE has taken a decisive step to curb the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by introducing surveillance systems in the country’s rapidly growing aquaculture sector, amid rising concerns over the misuse of antibiotics in fish farming.
The initiative, spearheaded by Government in collaboration with research institutions and development partners, seeks to monitor and regulate antibiotic use in aquaculture — a sector increasingly recognised as both a pillar of food security and a potential public health risk.
Speaking on the development, AMR expert Mr Robert Kamutambuko said the introduction of surveillance marks a critical turning point in addressing a long-standing gap.
“For a long time, aquaculture has remained a blind spot in antimicrobial resistance surveillance. This initiative allows us to begin tracking what has largely gone unmonitored,” he said.
Officials note that until now, Zimbabwe has had no systematic system to track antimicrobial use or resistance in fish farming, raising the risk of unchecked spread of resistant bacteria.
AMR occurs when bacteria evolve to resist medicines, rendering treatments ineffective and increasing the risk of severe illness and death.
Globally, AMR is already a major health threat, with projections suggesting it could claim up to 10 million lives annually by 2050 if left unchecked.
Mr Kamutambuko warned that aquaculture, if left unregulated, could accelerate the spread of resistance through water systems and the food chain.
“When antibiotics are used without proper oversight in fish farming, residues can persist in water and promote the development of resistant bacteria. These can ultimately find their way to humans through food consumption or environmental exposure,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s aquaculture sector, dominated by tilapia production, has been expanding steadily, contributing to national food security, nutrition and rural livelihoods.
However, another expert, Lorraine Salimu said, this growth must be matched with safeguards.
She said rising water temperatures linked to climate change are increasing disease outbreaks in fish, often prompting farmers to turn to antibiotics to protect their stock.
“This trend makes surveillance even more urgent.
“Climate change is worsening disease patterns in aquaculture and without proper guidance, farmers may resort to excessive antibiotic use. Surveillance helps us detect these patterns early and respond appropriately,” she said.
The new programme adopts a One Health approach, bringing together human, animal and environmental health sectors to tackle AMR in an integrated manner.
Key institutions involved include the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, the Ministry of Health and Child Care, environmental authorities and research bodies.
Through the initiative, authorities aim to establish baseline data on antimicrobial use, monitor resistance patterns, strengthen laboratory capacity and promote responsible antibiotic use among farmers.
Ms Salimu emphasised that data generated from the system will be crucial in shaping national policy.
“You cannot manage what you do not measure. This surveillance system will provide the evidence needed to guide regulations, improve farmer practices and protect public health,” she said.
Consumer safety is also a major concern, as antimicrobial resistance can be transmitted through contaminated food.
Fish carrying resistant bacteria or antibiotic residues may pose health risks if proper controls are not enforced.
Authorities say awareness campaigns targeting fish farmers will be rolled out to encourage improved biosecurity, better water management and reduced reliance on antibiotics.
Development partners are expected to support the initiative through technical expertise and capacity building.
She said collaboration will be key to the success of the programme.
“Addressing antimicrobial resistance requires a collective effort — from farmers and scientists to policymakers and consumers. This is not just an agriculture issue; it is a national health priority,” she said.
As Zimbabwe positions aquaculture as a key driver of economic growth and food security, officials stress that sustainability must go hand in hand with safety.
With the introduction of AMR surveillance in aquaculture, the country is taking a proactive step towards safeguarding both public health and the environment.
