Forensic Pathology Research Priorities for Zambia: Strengthening Justice and Public Health through Evidence-Based Practice

Kachinda Wezi, Zulu Mbawe, Arthur Chisanga, Musimuko Ellison, Tembo Frenshus, Hasting Zulu, Kelvin Adutwum-Ofosu, Nnoli Anazodo Martin and Munsaka Mweetwa Sody
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Kachinda Wezi: University of Zambia, School of Medicine, Department of microbiology and pathology, Lusaka, ZAMBIA. Lusaka Apex Medical University, Lusaka Province, ZAMBIA. Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka province, ZAMBIA. Department of Veterinary Services, Central Veterinary Research Institute, Lusaka, ZAMBIA
Zulu Mbawe: University of Zambia, School of Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Lusaka, ZAMBIA.
Arthur Chisanga: Center for Research and Development, Lusaka province, ZAMBIA. Zambia Open University, Lusaka province, ZAMBIA. University of Kabwe, Central province, ZAMBIA.
Musimuko Ellison: University of Adelaide, School of Animal and Veterinary Science, Adelaide, AUSTRALIA. Natural Resources Development College, Lusaka, ZAMBIA. National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research, Lusaka, ZAMBIA
Tembo Frenshus: University of Zambia, School of Medicine, Department of microbiology and pathology, Lusaka, ZAMBIA. Lusaka Apex Medical University, Lusaka Province, ZAMBIA.
Hasting Zulu: Department of Veterinary Services, Central Veterinary Research Institute, Lusaka, ZAMBIA
Kelvin Adutwum-Ofosu: University of Ghana, School of Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Accra, GHANA.
Nnoli Anazodo Martin: University of Calabar, Faculty of Basic clinical sciences, Department of pathology, Cross River State, NIGERIA.
Munsaka Mweetwa Sody: University of Zambia, School of Health Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Lusaka, ZAMBIA.

International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation, 2025, vol. 12, issue 15, 655-666

Abstract: Forensic pathology plays a critical role in Zambia’s criminal justice system and public health infrastructure, yet the field faces significant challenges, including resource constraints, workforce shortages, and gaps in standardized protocols. This report identifies and prioritizes key research areas to advance forensic pathology in Zambia, leveraging current institutional frameworks, global advancements, and the potential of molecular techniques. Through an analysis of Zambia’s forensic landscape—including the roles of the National Forensic Authority (NFA), the Office of the State Forensic Pathologist (OSFP), and the National Forensic Science and Biometrics Department (NFSB)—we highlight systemic challenges such as limited pathologist availability, logistical barriers, and the impact of infectious diseases like COVID-19 on forensic services (Mucheleng’anga & Himwaze, 2020; Shumba et al., 2023). Globally, innovations such as digital pathology, post-mortem imaging, molecular autopsy, and microbiome analysis offer transformative potential for Zambia, though their implementation must be contextually adapted (Girelli et al., 2024). Locally, molecular techniques, particularly DNA analysis, present opportunities for improved identification and cause-of-death determination, especially in cases involving decomposed remains or mass disasters (DNAforAfrica.com, n.d.). Priority research areas include: (1) epidemiological analysis of prevalent causes of death (e.g., trauma, homicide, and infectious diseases); (2) validation of cost-effective molecular tools for resource-limited settings; (3) toxicological studies on traditional remedies and environmental factors; and (4) development of standardized protocols tailored to Zambia’s needs.

Date: 2025
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