PPR buffer zones in Southern Africa

Lusaka, Zambia, hosted a crucial three-day meeting to develop a coordinated regional buffer zone to protect the Southern African Development Community (SADC) from Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR)—a highly contagious viral disease affecting sheep and goats

Taking place from August 25 to 27, 2025, the meeting brings together SADC veterinary authorities, the EU Representative to Zambia, AU-IBAR, and technical experts from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and FAO. It is part of the EU-funded PPR Eradication Programme (2023–2026) aimed at eliminating the disease across Africa.

Opening the event, Zambia’s Minister of Livestock, Honourable Kapala, stressed that livestock are more than food sources—they represent dignity, wealth, and social cohesion in African communities. He reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to investing in cross-border surveillance and buffer zones, but acknowledged ongoing challenges such as limited funding and overstretched veterinary systems. “Eradication is only possible if we work together—sharing best practices, harmonising our approaches, and supporting one another with the necessary resources,” he stated.

The FAO-led PPR Global Eradication Programme (GEP) provided updates on disease prevalence and control progress. Despite notable gains, PPR still affects more than 70 countries in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, impacting over 300 million smallholder farmers. Global losses range from US$1.5 to US$2.1 billion annually, making eradication a critical part of achieving SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

Southern Africa has made strides. Five SADC countries and one zone in Namibia are already recognised as PPR-free by WOAH. Most member states have developed National Strategic Plans aligned with global and continental frameworks. However, proximity to PPR-endemic zones in East Africa and porous borders present ongoing threats, especially in communal grazing areas.

Across the three days, participants are focusing on regional risk mapping, surveillance strategies, vaccination logistics, and harmonised control of animal movement. The goal is to validate a Regional Action Plan, establish a SADC buffer zone map, and mobilise financial support.

The EU, a key funding partner, has pledged EUR 8 million through AU-IBAR and is considering a further EUR 50 million in grants and EUR 40 million in blended finance, conditional on strong political engagement from African governments.

This Lusaka meeting marks a turning point. It reinforces regional ownership of the fight against PPR and the importance of aligning with global eradication targets by 2030. The results will not only shield Southern Africa from future outbreaks but contribute to global food security, rural development, and livestock resilience.