Zambia Hosts 6th Africa Biennial Biosciences Communication Symposium
The Minister of Agriculture, Honourable Reuben Mtolo, MP, has urged for decisive measures to counter misinformation and disinformation in science, warning that falsehoods are jeopardising food security, public health, and Africa’s path towards sustainable development.
Speaking through the Acting Director of the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute (ZARI), Dr Ndashe Kapulu, during the official opening of the 6th Africa Biennial Biosciences Communication Symposium (ABBC 2025) at the Intercontinental Hotel in Lusaka, Mr Mtolo emphasised the urgent need for credible science communication.
Held under the theme “The War on Science: How Can We Overcome the Burden of Misinformation and Disinformation?” the symposium has brought together leading scientists, policymakers, development partners, and communicators from across the continent.
Mr Mtolo noted that the impact of misinformation is already being felt in Zambia, particularly in agriculture, which sustains over 70 per cent of the population.
“Misinformation strikes at the nerve centre of our economy and livelihoods. It undermines trust, delays progress, and in some cases, costs lives,” he said.
The Minister highlighted the government’s continued investment in research and innovation, which has produced climate-smart crops, drought-tolerant and pest-resistant maize varieties, improved fruit trees, and enhanced livestock disease surveillance systems. However, he cautioned that these advances could be derailed if misinformation is allowed to spread unchecked.
He further stressed the importance of strengthening communication and collaboration across sectors, anchored on the One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health solutions.
“By deploying science-driven interventions, guided by sound policy and supported by effective communication, we can safeguard lives, strengthen economies, and protect our environment,” he added.
The three-day symposium provides a platform for scientists, communicators, and policymakers to bridge the gap between science and society, exchange knowledge, and co-create strategies to combat misinformation. Interactive sessions, expert panels, and knowledge-sharing forums will showcase how effective science communication can accelerate inclusive development in Africa.
