African swine fever (ASF) is a contagious haemorrhagic disease associated with causing heavy economic losses to the swine industry in many African countries. In 2017, Zambia experienced ASF outbreaks in Mbala District (Northern province) and for the first time in Isoka and Chinsali districts (Muchinga province). Meanwhile, another outbreak was observed in Chipata District (Eastern province). Genetic analysis of part of the B646L gene, E183L gene, CP204L gene and the central variable region of the B602L gene of ASF virus (ASFV) associated with the outbreaks in Mbala and Chipata districts was conducted. The results revealed that the ASFV detected in Mbala District was highly similar to that of the Georgia 2007/1 isolate across all the genome regions analysed. In contrast, while showing close relationship with the Georgia 2007/1 virus in the B646L gene, the ASFV detected in Chipata District showed remarkable genetic variation in the rest of the genes analysed. These results suggest that the Georgia 2007/1-like virus could be more diverse than what was previously thought, underscoring the need of continued surveillance and monitoring of ASFVs within the south-eastern African region to better understand their epidemiology and the relationships between outbreaks and their possible origin.

Background/Objectives: The deposition of antibiotic residues in animal source foods has become a global public health threat. This study aimed to assess antibiotic class residues in raw cow milk from smallholder dairy farms in Mbala and Kasama, Zambia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, in which 93 milk samples (54 from Mbala and 39 from Kasama) were randomly collected from lactating cows on 56 farms between May and June, 2025. The samples were analyzed using the Charm II assay for beta-lactams, tetracyclines, macrolides, sulfonamides, and aminoglycosides. A total of 100 mL of milk was collected in sterile plain tubes, placed in a cooler box with ice packs, and transported to the district laboratory’s freezer and then delivered to the Central Veterinary Research Institute at (−18 to −20 °C), where they were stored at −20 °C. Statistical significance between districts was determined using Pearson’s chi-square, and associations between a district and the occurrence of antibiotic residues in milk were evaluated using logistic regression. Data were analyzed using Stata 14.2 at a 95% confidence level (p = 0.05). Results: A total of 91.4% (n = 85) of samples had antibiotic residues above EU/MRLs, with mean positive samples being 0.91 ± 0.28 and a significant association between a district and residue occurrence (OR = 0.086; p = 0.025). Approximately 44.1% of the samples had multiple antibiotic residues. Approximately 82.1% of samples from Kasama and 98.1% from Mbala had antibiotic residues (p = 0.006). Approximately 68.8% of samples had sulphonamides, and 58.1% macrolides, indicating their widespread use. Tetracyclines were 12.9%, beta-lactams 9.7%, and aminoglycosides 2.2%. Conclusions: A majority of milk samples had antibiotic residues above EU/MRLs, raising public health threats and necessitating the development and implementation of policies.

Aquaculture in Zambia is rapidly growing, contributing significantly to food security and income generation. However, the intensification of fish farming raises concerns about antimicrobial use (AMU) and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of fish farmers regarding AMU and AMR across 25 districts in Zambia’s ten provinces. Data were collected from fish farmers using a structured questionnaire distributed via district fisheries officers and analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics, including logistic regression. The results revealed significant gaps in knowledge, with only 17.4% of farmers classified as knowledgeable about AMU and AMR. Attitude assessments showed that 60.5% exhibited positive attitudes toward responsible AMU practices, while the remaining 39.5% displayed negative perceptions. In terms of practices, 76.5% adhered to good practices, including consulting veterinary professionals and responsible antibiotic use, whereas 23.5% engaged in poor practices. Key factors influencing KAP outcomes included age, farming experience, and annual production capacity. Farmers aged 30–39 years and those with 1–5 years of experience demonstrated significantly more positive attitudes (p < 0.05), while those with higher production capacities (501–1000 kg) exhibited better practices (p < 0.001). The findings highlight critical knowledge gaps and inconsistent practices regarding AMU and AMR among Zambian fish farmers. Targeted interventions, including education programs, enhanced access to veterinary services, and strengthened regulatory frameworks, are essential to promote responsible AMU, mitigate AMR risks, and ensure the sustainability of aquaculture in Zambia.