Primrose Bontle Lehubye

Primrose Lehubye is an experienced aquatic animal health professional, environmental specialist, and aquaculture practitioner with over a decade of expertise in aquatic animal health management, environmental protection, and biosecurity systems. Her work focuses on strengthening aquatic animal health frameworks, advancing fish welfare practices, supporting sustainable aquaculture, and safeguarding biodiversity through science-based environmental management.

She holds a Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Environmental Management and a degree in Animal Health, supported by extensive professional training in aquatic animal health, ichthyology, aquaculture management systems, and aquatic disease control. Primrose is registered as a Professional Animal Health Technician with the South African Veterinary Council. Her specialized training has been obtained from reputable institutions including Rhodes University, Stellenbosch University, and the University of Stirling, Scotland, equipping her with advanced knowledge in fish health diagnostics, epidemiology, aquaculture biosecurity, and environmental risk assessment.

Since 2014, Primrose has served as an Environmental Officer (Specialized Production/Aquatic Animal Health Technician) at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment in South Africa. In this capacity, she plays a critical role in the management, control, and regulation of aquatic animal health and welfare at the national level. Her responsibilities include aquatic disease surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, epidemiological data analysis, biosecurity implementation, and the monitoring of aquatic animal health threats that may affect production systems, biodiversity, and international trade.

Her work involves conducting scientific research on emerging and transboundary aquatic animal diseases, supporting early detection and response systems, and strengthening national preparedness for disease outbreaks. She contributes to the development and implementation of national aquatic animal health and welfare policies and strategies, ensuring alignment with international standards such as those established by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). She also contributes to pioneering departmental research on Abalone polychaete infestations as part of an early disease warning system. Through her work, she supports safe trade in aquatic products while promoting sustainable aquaculture development.

She is committed to promoting sustainable aquaculture through science-based regulation, environmental stewardship and contributing to sustainable aquaculture development through a One Health framework.