INTRODUCTION:
Microplastics are increasingly recognised as emerging contaminants in freshwater ecosystems, with profound implications for environmental integrity, animal health, and human well-being. In Africa, freshwater fish are a critical source of protein and livelihoods, yet growing evidence suggests they are vulnerable to microplastic contamination. Climate change and rapid urbanisation intensify these risks by altering hydrological cycles, aquatic productivity, and pollutant pathways. The One Health framework offers a holistic lens to examine how microplastic pollution in freshwater fish intersects with climate change, environmental health, and urban health challenges across the continent.

METHODS:
This systematic review will follow PRISMA guidelines to identify, screen, and synthesise peer-reviewed literature published between 2010 and 2025. Searches will be conducted in Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and ScienceDirect using keywords such as microplastics, freshwater fish, Africa, climate change, One Health, urban health. Studies will be included if they report on microplastic contamination in freshwater fish consumed in African countries and address environmental, animal, or human health outcomes. Data extraction will focus on contamination levels, sources, exposure pathways, and associated risks, while thematic synthesis will highlight interdisciplinary linkages across One Health domains. Expected

RESULTS:
The review is expected to reveal widespread microplastic contamination in freshwater fish across African aquatic systems, with variations linked to urban runoff, waste mismanagement, and climate-related stressors. Findings will likely underscore cascading impacts on food security, public health, and ecosystem resilience. By situating these insights within the One Health paradigm, the review aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for integrated policies, sustainable freshwater fisheries management, and climate-resilient health strategies tailored to African contexts.