The Zimbabwe Anti Corruption Committee has intercepted 4 tonnes of illegal chicken in Mahusekwa Mashonaland east and burnt them at a dump site in Marondera.
The question was mainly on how these chickens were cleared at the border yet they cause threat to peoples health. Zimbabwean authorities have raised the alarm over the smuggling of chickens into the country, warning that the illegal trade poses a serious threat to public health and the local poultry industry. Smuggled poultry, often of unknown origin, could carry deadly diseases like avian influenza, endangering food security and livestock production.
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Government officials stress that consumers have no way of verifying whether these chickens meet health and safety standards. Without proper inspections, the risk of contaminated or diseased poultry entering the food chain remains high. Smugglers bypass biosecurity measures, potentially exposing Zimbabwe’s farms to outbreaks that could cripple the industry.
The Ministry of Agriculture and health experts have urged the public to purchase poultry only from registered suppliers. Strengthening border control measures is also seen as critical in curbing this growing problem. Consumers are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious poultry sales to authorities.
Biosecurity remains a top priority in safeguarding Zimbabwe’s food supply. Authorities warn that continued smuggling could lead to stricter enforcement measures, including penalties for those caught trafficking illegal poultry. The government is calling for a collective effort to protect the nation’s poultry industry and ensure safe food for all
