Wild meat hunting and trade across sub-Saharan Africa is extensive and complex, often

linked to disease outbreaks that elevate pandemic risks for zoonotic disease transmission

from wildlife to humans. This risk is facilitated by direct contact during hunting and handling.

Increased human-wildlife interactions due to encroachment into wildlife habitat,

unregulated trade and lack of sanitary controls intensify these risks. Additionally,

conservation pressures and cultural practices complicate mitigation efforts. To reduce the

risks associated with wild meat value chains, effective strategies should include enhanced

disease surveillance, regulation of wild meat markets, improved handling practices and the

provision of sustainable alternatives for communities dependent on wild meat. Additionally,

targeted human behaviour change interventions are crucial for reducing zoonotic disease

transmission and conservation of species. These comprehensive measures are essential for

mitigating the complex health and environmental challenges posed by the wild meat trade.