CUT’s Groundbreaking Antivenom Research Brings Hope Against Snakebite Fatalities
Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT) is advancing research on a herbal-based, polyvalent antivenom that could transform snakebite treatment in Zimbabwe.
Preliminary experimental trials have shown promising results, raising hopes for a breakthrough that may enhance survival chances for snakebite victims.
Since January 2025, Zimbabwe has recorded over 2,300 snakebites, resulting in nine fatalities.
The country currently depends on serum-based antivenom imported from India, which requires health workers to identify the snake species before administering treatment.
CUT researchers aim to develop a more universal solution capable of neutralizing venom from multiple snake types.
CUT researcher Mr. Takura Gozho explained the limitations of existing antivenom.
“Existing antivenoms are species-specific. For instance, treatment for a black mamba bite is ineffective against a puff adder bite. Our goal is to create a polyvalent herbal-based formula capable of neutralizing venom from multiple snake species,” he said
Early findings suggest the herbal formula may also provide prophylactic benefits, helping individuals in high-risk areas build resistance to venom before exposure.
“This approach could be especially valuable for individuals working in snake-prone environments, including farmers and cattle herders,”Gozho added.
CUT has begun discussions with the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) to advance clinical trials after successful laboratory and animal model testing.
CUT Innovation Hub manager Engineer Powell Mlambo confirmed the research progress, stating: “The studies have been encouraging, and we are working toward clinical trials in line with regulatory guidelines.”
Local antivenom production could lessen reliance on costly imports, which are currently priced at around US$700 per vial.
In South Africa, where antivenom is produced domestically, prices are slightly lower at R10,000 (US$550) per dose.
Snakebites are most prevalent between November and April, primarily impacting agricultural workers.
According to The Herald, Zimbabwe is home to 80 snake species, six of which—including the black mamba, puff adder, and Mozambique spitting cobra—account for 75% of fatal bites.
Researchers are also exploring snake farming as a sustainable way to obtain venom for antivenom production.
“We have conducted successful in-vitro and in-vivo experiments to evaluate the antivenom’s effectiveness before advancing to clinical trials,” said Gozho.
He added that further engagement with MCAZ is scheduled next week to advance regulatory approvals.
