Zimbabwe takes steps to curb antimicrobial resistance in broiler farming

ZIBAMBWE – Zimbabwe is implementing a joint project with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations to address antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the country’s poultry sector.

The initiative, backed by the Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MPTF) and the Fleming Fund global project, targets the reduction of antibiotic use in broiler farming by promoting sustainable production methods.

Farmers in eight districts—Bubi, Chegutu, Masvingo, Marondera, Murewa, Mutare, Mutasa, and Zvimba—are receiving hands-on training on disease prevention and biosecurity through the Farmer Field School (FFS) model.

The FFS approach encourages farmers to adopt practices that minimize the use of antimicrobials by focusing on hygiene, early disease detection, vaccination, and improved animal husbandry.

According to FAO Livestock Development Officer Berhanu Bedane, the project applies the One Health model, which links human, animal, and environmental health in addressing common challenges like AMR.

Speaking during a project review session, Bedane said the intervention emphasizes practical solutions over awareness campaigns, helping farmers make measurable changes in daily operations.

To guide the training process, the project conducted a baseline Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) survey to ensure the lessons aligned with local contexts and knowledge levels.

This survey informed the design of materials used in the field schools, making the sessions more relevant and accessible to the participating poultry farmers.

Bedane said that farmers have reported better productivity and fewer poultry infections, which in turn has lowered the need for antibiotics in their flocks.

He also confirmed that similar strategies are being introduced in Zimbabwe’s dairy sector, suggesting a wider push to manage AMR across livestock systems.

Chief Director of the Department of Veterinary Services, Dr. Pious Makaya, said the initiative supports Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 and Vision 2030 by contributing to food safety and public health.

Dr. Makaya added that tackling AMR requires cooperation among veterinary, environmental, and human health sectors, as no single agency can manage the issue alone.

Both FAO and the Zimbabwean government have indicated that plans are underway to expand the project in a second phase, although timelines and budgets are yet to be confirmed.

The initiative also aligns with global frameworks like RENOFARM, which advocate for lower antibiotic use in farming by strengthening animal health systems and farm management.

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