Staff Reporter
Government is ramping up efforts to prevent the spread and use of biological weapons, with a new Biological Weapons Bill set to be discussed in Parliament.
The recurring outbreaks of diseases like cholera, typhoid, and anthrax have underscored the devastating impact that biological threats can have on the country’s health, food security, and economy, prompting stronger measures to safeguard against such dangers.
Speaking at a Stakeholders Forum on the National Implementation of the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) in Harare yesterday, the Minister of Defence, Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, emphasised the importance of a solid legal framework in addressing these threats.
“Zimbabwe attaches great importance to bilateral and multilateral cooperation. We are committed to meeting all obligations under the Biological Weapons Convention and enhancing our preparedness and response strategies against the threats posed by biological weapons,” she said.
She further highlighted the progress Zimbabwe has made in implementing the BWC, including the appointment of a National Contact Point in 2022, who has played a pivotal role in coordinating national efforts.
“The Biological Warfare Bill, currently before Parliament, will strengthen our legal framework and address knowledge gaps that have hampered our ability to fully implement the BWC. The bill is expected to culminate in the passage of an Act of Parliament that will further enhance Zimbabwe’s biosecurity capabilities,” Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri added.
International support for Zimbabwe’s efforts was evident at the forum, with stakeholders pledging their continued collaboration.
The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchman, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting global biosecurity initiatives.
“Since 2006, the EU has provided over 12 million EUR in direct support of the Biological Weapons Convention. We are proud to support initiatives like the Youth for Biosecurity Fellowship, ensuring that the next generation of scientists, especially from the Global South, are well-equipped to advise their governments on biosecurity matters,” he said.
The Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) prohibits the development, production, stockpiling, and use of biological and toxin weapons.
With the proposed bill and enhanced stakeholder collaboration, Zimbabwe is taking critical steps to fortify its defences against these threats, ensuring the safety of its citizens and contributing to global biosecurity.
