Yesha
Senior Member
- Jan 28, 2026
- 143
- 69
Concerns have resurfaced over allegations that some poultry farmers are misusing antiretroviral (ARV) drugs by mixing them into chicken feed to speed up growth.
The practice, which has been reported in parts of Zimbabwe over the years, has drawn warnings from health and agricultural officials, who say human medicines should not be used on livestock.
Experts have warned that misuse of medicines in poultry production can contribute to drug resistance and pose risks to consumers and animal health. Farmers have been urged to follow approved veterinary practices when raising chickens.
However, previous investigations have noted that the extent of ARV use in poultry farming remains difficult to establish, with limited confirmed cases.
The practice, which has been reported in parts of Zimbabwe over the years, has drawn warnings from health and agricultural officials, who say human medicines should not be used on livestock.
Experts have warned that misuse of medicines in poultry production can contribute to drug resistance and pose risks to consumers and animal health. Farmers have been urged to follow approved veterinary practices when raising chickens.
However, previous investigations have noted that the extent of ARV use in poultry farming remains difficult to establish, with limited confirmed cases.
