CABI Blog

Zambia has taken a significant step in bolstering its food safety framework by hosting a comprehensive hands-on training workshop in Livingstone.

Supported by the Codex Trust Fund and the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), the training aimed to build the capacity of national stakeholders and experts on Codex procedures and the effective use of electronic working tools.

Codex standards are a prerequisite for countries to effectively participate in global and regional trade and that trade is an important driver to improve food safety and public health concerns.

Session brought together key actors from Zambia’s food safety ecosystem

This hybrid training session brought together key actors from Zambia’s food safety ecosystem and was facilitated by seasoned experts, including  Dr Benoit Gnonlonfin, CABI’s SPS, Global Program Lead, Hakim Mufumbiro, the Coordinator of the FAO/WHO Coordinating Committee for Africa (CCAFRICA); John Oppong-Otoo, Food Safety Coordinator at AU-IBAR; Lusubilo Mwamakamba from the WHO African Region; and Giuseppe DiChiera from the Codex Alimentarius Secretariat.

The participants gained practical knowledge on the Codex Alimentarius Commission – its structure, mandate, and standards-setting processes. Sessions focused on science-based decision-making and risk analysis, emphasizing their critical role in Codex work. Trainees also explored best practices for stakeholder engagement and national coordination, which are key to ensuring that diverse voices and scientific evidence contribute meaningfully to food standard development.

Highlight of the training was the hands-on use of digital tools

A major highlight of the training was the hands-on use of digital tools such as the Electronic Working Group (EWG) platform and the Online Commenting System (OCS). Simulations and interactive exercises equipped participants with the skills to participate more effectively in Codex processes, ensuring timely and well-informed input on global food standards.

Beyond technical skills, the programme encouraged a renewed commitment among stakeholders to strengthen national-level engagement and coordination in Codex-related activities. Participants pledged to support Zambia’s continued involvement in Codex work, recognizing that active participation in international food standards development is crucial to protecting consumer health and promoting fair trade practices.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s journey toward a more robust and internationally aligned food safety system – one that is responsive, collaborative, and informed by science.

Additional information

Main image: The participants of the Codex training session (Credit: FAO).

Relevant story

‘CABI participates in CCAFRICA 25 to help support food value chains and break non-tariff barriers to trade.’