Zambia Tackles Misinformation in Public Health with New Workshop
The Zambia National Public Health Institute’s National One Health Coordinator, Dr. Raymond Hamoonga, has emphasized the dangers posed by rumors, misinformation, and disinformation in managing pandemics.
Speaking at a workshop on Rumor and Infodemic Management for Priority Zoonotic Conditions, supported by USAID through the Breakthrough Action for Social Behaviour Change Project, Dr. Hamoonga emphasized the critical need for accurate information in public health response.
Dr. Hamoonga highlighted the challenges of misinformation, especially concerning zoonotic diseases—those that transmit between animals and humans, such as rabies, brucellosis, and anthrax.
“Swift and accurate information management is essential to prevent outbreaks and safeguard human and animal health,” he stated.
He warned that misinformation can significantly impede response efforts and endanger lives.
The One Health concept, which recognizes the interconnectedness of people, animals, plants, and the environment, is central to addressing these challenges.
Dr. Hamoonga called for improved surveillance and detection of zoonotic diseases, the development of multisectoral messaging, and effective communication campaigns to counter misinformation.
He pointed out that misinformation had previously undermined government interventions, citing examples such as the COVID-19 vaccination drive and cholera response.
Dr. Hamoonga’s goal is to bolster Zambia’s capacity to manage rumors and infodemics, promote fact-based reporting, and enhance community health.
In addition, Dr. Hamoonga stressed the importance of leveraging technology and social media for the dissemination of accurate information.
The Ministry of Green Economy and Environment will continue to provide crucial information on the interactions between humans, animals, and the environment to aid in disease prevention and protection.
Felix Mpundu, Risk Communication and Community Engagement Programme Officer at Breakthrough Action for Social Behaviour Change, emphasized the need for community involvement in dispelling misinformation.
The workshop, held in Kabwe, brought together One Health partners from various sectors, including the Ministries of Green Economy and Environment, Health, Fisheries and Livestock, Local Government and Rural Development, as well as local administration and media organizations.
Participants shared knowledge, experiences, and best practices in managing rumors and promoting accurate information on priority zoonotic conditions.
