Bulawayo, (New Ziana)- Government has established the National Animal Research Ethics Committee (NAREC), a move meant to strengthen protection of animals used for scientific purposes.
NAREC chairperson, Pious Makaya said this was to ensure that all animal-based studies in Zimbabwe adhered to the highest standards of ethical care and scientific integrity.
“We are emphasising the government commitment to ethical research. Our foremost duty is to see that animal welfare is never compromised,” said Makaya. He said ethical research was not only about compassion but it was the foundation of reliable and internationally respected results.
He was speaking at an awareness campaign for ethical animal-based research, attended by universities and other stakeholders. Makaya further said the campaign also seeks to foster collaboration between researchers, academic leaders and institutions.
“Building partnerships to advance responsible science and elevate the quality of research is crucial. This dialogue encourages universities and laboratories to see ethical oversight not as a hurdle, but as a catalyst for innovation and global recognition,” he said.
Makaya said NAREC was calling on researchers to innovate responsibly, ensuring that Zimbabwe’s scientific output is both ethically sound and globally competitive. “Through strict oversight combined with educational outreach, NAREC is calling on researchers to innovate responsibly ensuring that Zimbabwe’s scientific output is both ethically sound and globally competitive.
The committee will regulate research in animal production and health to meet international standards,” he added. NAREC is established under Statutory Instrument 246 of 2021 through the Ministry of Agriculture via the Directorate of Veterinary Services and is tasked with protecting animal welfare throughout the research process.
“The committee scrutinises research proposals to guarantee humane treatment while promoting credible and high-quality scientific outcomes,” said Makaya. Animal research in Zimbabwe focuses on improving livestock production, animal health, and welfare, with a strong emphasis on addressing the challenges faced by smallholder farmers.
Collaborations with international organizations also plays a role in enhancing diagnostic capacities and disease control.
New Ziana
