Propagation of Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Disease Pathogens in Africa: The Role of Migratory Birds

Migratory birds have been implicated in the spread of diverse emerging infectious pathogens, including West Nile virus, Usutu virus, Avian influenza viruses, Salmonella, Campylobacter, antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria, and antibiotic resistance genes (ABGs). By acting as vectors, reservoirs, or hosts, they facilitate pathogen transmission during their long-distance migrations, often traversing thousands of kilometres and connecting ecosystems across continents. This ability allows them to easily traverse national borders and bypass traditional biosecurity measures, thereby acting as primary or co-conspirators in cross-species disease transmission among wildlife, livestock, and humans. Africa occupies a pivotal position in global migratory bird networks, yet comprehensive data on pathogen carriage remain limited. Gaps in knowledge of pathogen diversity constrain current surveillance systems, insufficient genomic monitoring of pathogen evolution, and weak integration of avian ecology with veterinary and human health. These limitations hinder early detection of novel pathogens and reduce the continent’s preparedness to manage outbreaks. Therefore, this review provides a holistic assessment of these challenges by consolidating existing knowledge concerning the pathogens transmitted by migratory birds in Africa, including the routes, drivers, and mechanisms of disease dissemination. It also offers a concise reappraisal of current surveillance systems and advocates for the adoption of a comprehensive One Health-omics approach, coupled with technological policies and strategies that encompass habitat management, agricultural reform, advanced surveillance, technological innovation, and cross-sectoral policy interventions.