Zoonoses Control in Africa: Measures to Enhance Involvement through Application of Community-Based Intelligence Gathering

Many of the zoonosis control measures adopted in Africa over the years have not been entirely successful because of neglect of some socioecological factors which are crucial and peculiar to Africa. This study seeks ways to enhance control of zoonosis by adopting a pattern of research and implementation that incorporates socioecological factors and community-based intelligence gathering of data in Africa. A literature search using established data sources: PubMed and Scopus, scooping review to get information on the previous measures used for zoonosis control. It was seen that previous research was inclined more to problem identification than to an evidence-based problem-solving approach. It was also observed that East and Southern Africa are at the forefront of zoonoses and One Health research in Africa, while West Africa is leading in studies related to heavy metals contamination. The results showed that emphasis should be shifted to newer approaches that embrace socioecological factors; hence, community-based intelligence plays a major role in gathering information in Africa for proper implementation of zoonoses control. To ensure this, a holistic means of acquiring information and applying the One Health approach, which takes cognizance of the interaction of humans, animals, and the environment is essential.