Zambia faces public health crisis over contaminated maize

Zambia is confronting a serious public health issue after approximately 400 dogs died from consuming maize contaminated with aflatoxins, a toxic substance produced by fungi.

Health Minister Elijah Muchima announced that nearly half of the maize samples tested from milling companies contained dangerously high levels of aflatoxins, raising concerns for human health.

The World Health Organization has linked aflatoxins to liver cancer, but no human deaths have been reported so far. Authorities launched an investigation after a Zambian broadcaster, Diamond TV, reported the dog deaths.

The investigation led to the recall of affected maize meal batches, though the government has yet to name the specific brands involved, sparking public outcry.

The Millers Association of Zambia has intensified testing and surveillance efforts, while the government continues to monitor the situation amid a backdrop of climate change and drought, which have exacerbated the contamination.

The public remains anxious, demanding transparency and swift action to protect their health.