Melo News | Monday, February 19, 2024 | Lusaka
The veterinary association in Zambia has raised alarm about the growing underground trade of dog meat being passed off as goat meat to unsuspecting consumers in public drinking spots and open markets across the country.
During a press conference held in Lusaka, the president of the association, Malcolm Chiyoba, emphasized the urgent need for stricter enforcement measures to curb this illegal activity, warning that without consequences for offenders, the practice could become more prevalent.
The collaboration between the veterinary association and animal welfare organizations aims to bring attention to this concerning issue and advocate for stronger penalties to deter those involved in the illicit trade of mislabeled meat, ultimately protecting both animals and consumers in Zambia.
Dr. Chiyoba has emphasized the potential health risks associated with consuming dog meat, highlighting the transmission of zoonotic diseases such as rabies and various parasites like roundworms and hookworms from animals to humans. This underscores the importance of raising awareness about the dangers posed by the consumption of dog meat and the need for stricter regulations to protect public health.
In light of these concerns, Dr. Chiyoba has urged for the reinforcement of the Food Safety Act number 7 of 2019 in Zambia. This legislation plays a crucial role in overseeing the production, sale, and consumption of food products within the country, aiming to ensure that food items meet the necessary safety standards to safeguard the well-being of consumers.
Additionally, Sheila Oparaocha, the vice chairperson of the Lusaka Animal Welfare Society, has drawn attention to the alarming trend of dog meat being trafficked across the border to the Democratic Republic of Congo. This illicit trade has created a profitable market for dog meat, leading to the inhumane treatment and unsafe handling of dogs in Zambia. Investigations have revealed that approximately 100 dogs are smuggled across the border each month, raising serious ethical and animal welfare concerns that need to be addressed promptly.
