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Commercial livestock farmers are advocating for the creation of a structured livestock finance facility to foster growth and development in the sector.
In an interview with <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/farmers-appeal-for-assistance/">Business Times</a> on the sidelines of the annual national agribusiness conference on Wednesday at the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show (ZAS) in Harare, Reneth Mano, CEO of the Livestock and Meat Advisory Council, emphasised the necessity for banks and the government to provide support to livestock farmers. Said Mano:
<blockquote>
…we work hand in hand with the government and we have been advocating for (financial support) on the livestock side, similar and parallel to what we do with the crop production side.
I think in Zimbabwe we know that the livestock industry, the production system plays a very important role in uplifting the livelihoods of two-thirds of the population in Zimbabwe who reside in areas that raise a lot of cattle and a lot of goats.
So, we have proposed that we need a properly structured livestock finance facility with co-financing coming from the banks and from the government.
</blockquote>
In Zimbabwe, crop farmers, including those growing tobacco and cotton, benefit from contract farming arrangements.
Meanwhile, subsistence farmers receive free inputs through the Presidential Input Scheme, which supports smallholder farmers across the country. Added Mano:
<blockquote>
We believe that the livestock industry by its very nature, any financing of growth and development, particularly focusing on multiplication of heifers making sure people have adequate capacity to breed enough animals.”
We believe that a properly structured (financial) facility for the livestock sector, with input coming from farmers themselves, coming from the players in the value chain, will have a very good chance of transforming the livestock sector and really anchoring the sector for growth in the export space.
</blockquote>
Earlier this month, a Zimbabwean cattle rancher, Collen Tafireyi, shattered cattle auction records at the Hurwitz Farming Production Auction held at the Bull Ring Auction House in Davel, Mpumalanga, South Africa, by buying a prized Boran Stud bull for a whopping R8 million (US$444 000).
Tafireyi is a Boran breeder at Sinyo Boran Stud in Hwedza, Mashonaland East Province.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Livestock farmers in Zimbabwe want a special money program to help them grow their businesses. The CEO of the Livestock and Meat Advisory Council says that farmers who raise cattle and goats need support like crop farmers do. They want banks and the government to give them money to help them buy more animals and improve their farms. This will help them sell more meat and other products to make more money. One farmer even spent a lot of money on a special bull to improve his cattle farm. Livestock farmers hope this new money program will help them grow and sell more in the future.

Livestock Farmers Call For Finance Facility To Boost Sector Growth

A vigilant member of the Bulawayo neighbourhood watch committee was assaulted with an axe handle by suspected cattle rustlers, but one of the perpetrators was arrested on Monday.
As reported by <a href="https://cite.org.zw/neighbourhood-watch-hero-thwarts-cattle-rustlers-in-dramatic-chase/">CITE</a>, police officers in Bulawayo arrested 43-year-old Bhekilizwe Nyathi from the Nkulumane suburb after he and his alleged accomplice were caught red-handed with five slaughtered, stolen cattle.
The neighbourhood watch member spotted the two suspects in a parked vehicle, which contained the cattle carcasses.
When the watchman approached the duo and inquired about their destination with the slaughtered animals, Nyathi allegedly became evasive.
After a failed attempt to bribe the watchman, Nyathi is said to have struck him in the mouth with an axe handle, causing injuries.
The spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Inspector Abednico Ncube, confirmed the incident and the arrest of the suspect. Said Insp. Ncube:
<blockquote>
Nyathi then jumped into the vehicle and drove off, but the neighbourhood watch member managed to jump into the back of the van, from where he called for police assistance.
Nyathi and his accomplice drove for a while until their vehicle ran out of fuel. They abandoned the car and tried to flee, but the police and members of the public outpaced them.
Officers from Nkulumane police station attended the scene and noticed that the cattle had the Hope Fountain brand. The matter was then transferred to Hillside police station for further investigation.
As the police, we applaud the bravery shown by the neighbourhood watch member. Here in Bulawayo and surrounding areas, we are very strict on such offences.
We have declared that Bulawayo will not be a market for stolen cattle. We are very grateful to the vigilant neighbourhood watch member who risked his life to ensure the arrest of the accused.
</blockquote>
The stolen cattle belonged to 61-year-old Zenzo Luphahla of Hope Fountain, who revealed that the animals were stolen on Sunday after his herdsman left them grazing.
Luphahla said stock theft is a persistent problem in their area, and over the years, he has lost nearly 40 head of cattle to thieves. He said:
<blockquote>
I warned my herdboy that it was dangerous to leave the cattle unattended in the pastures because of the high incidence of thefts we have been recording. As fate would have it, later that day when he brought them back home, some were missing.
I later saw in a WhatsApp group that some cattle had been recovered in Bulawayo, but I never thought they could be mine.
A friend of mine later called and told me that they were my cattle after recognising the brand mark.
It is quite heartbreaking to lose five cattle at the same time, especially to thieves. But I am glad to have discovered what happened to them, rather than hoping they would return home at some point.
I am also grateful to the man who initiated the citizen’s arrest of the accused. We need more such brave men, and we hope to continue working well with the police to bring stock theft to an end.
</blockquote>
Last week, thieves targeted a farm in Banket, Mashonaland West Province, stealing 21 cattle from Plot 21, Batch Farm.
According to the police, 12 of the stolen cattle were recovered at a neighbouring farm, while the remaining 9 were found deboned at the crime scene.
In connection with the theft, a 32-year-old man, Sauro Mudzimiri, was arrested. At the crime scene, the police recovered 37 knives, heaps of steak meat, and 50 kg of empty bags, further corroborating the suspects’ involvement in the incident.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

In Bulawayo, a brave neighbourhood watch member stopped cattle rustlers and got assaulted. One suspect was arrested, and stolen cattle were recovered. The watchman saw the suspects with slaughtered cattle and tried to stop them. The suspect hit him with an axe handle but was caught by the police. The stolen cattle belonged to a man named Zenzo Luphahla. Stock theft is a big problem in the area. In another case in Banket, 21 cattle were stolen, and one suspect was arrested. The police found evidence linking the suspect to the crime scene. Efforts are being made to stop stock theft in the area.

Cattle Rustlers Flee With "Brave" Neighbourhood Watch Member On Back Of Van

Farmers in the areas around Banket and Trelawney in Mashonaland West Province have lost close to 50 cattle and at least 70 goats over the past two weeks.
According to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/carnage-as-rustlers-leave-trail-of-death-despair/">The Herald</a>, the thieves, operating under the cover of darkness, wielding knives and sacks, have been raiding kraal after kraal, herding out the livestock to secluded locations where they systematically slaughter, skin and debone the animals.
The meat is then loaded into sacks and the thieves disappear into the night.
In the most recent incident, on Thursday night, thieves cut through the perimeter fence of a cattle pen at Tambowit Estate Phase 2, Plot 21 in Banket, belonging to Mr Admire Gora.
They drove out 21 head of cattle and moved them about 2.5 km away, where they began slaughtering, skinning and deboning 9 of the animals.
The theft was discovered by Masauso Kabata and an employee, who raised the alarm after finding the cattle pen empty. Said Kabata:
<blockquote>
I was on my way from putting out a fire at around 1.30 AM when I discovered that the pen was empty.
I started following the fresh spoor leading to the discovery of meat on the ground. I then informed my colleagues and later on, my boss who called the police.
It was painful to see the head and part of the torso lying lifeless on the ground.
</blockquote>
Their arrival disturbed the thieves, prompting them to flee the scene. Left behind were 37 brand new knives, empty 50kg sacks, and 2 bags that had already been stuffed with the stolen meat.
<img alt="May be an image of elephant seal" decoding="async" src="https://scontent.fhre1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/456487198_895008372647962_3773097734240707374_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=833d8c&amp;_nc_ohc=cu-ec-CZZsUQ7kNvgHhF_M2&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fhre1-2.fna&amp;oh=00_AYCtKC_IhpzG-3SqqvRQwAzFewv15zT1HpKm3YMJ5mAKPA&amp;oe=66CF3E9E"/>
The farm supervisor, Clayton Nyambawo, expressed deep concern over the incident, saying the theft was a major setback, as seven of the nine slaughtered cattle were expected to produce calves by the end of the year.
Inspector Ian Kohwera, the spokesperson for the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in Mashonaland West Province, confirmed the theft livestock theft. He said:
<blockquote>
The complainant advised the police in Banket, who summoned the canine unit from Chinhoyi. They swiftly attended the scene.
They followed a spoor for about 2.5 kilometres from the complainant’s farm into the neighbouring farm.
They suddenly arrived at the scene where the unknown suspects had slaughtered 9 cattle. Thirty-seven knives, 50kg empty bags, and two loaded ones were found at the scene. Twelve cattle were recovered a kilometre away from the scene.
</blockquote>
Farmers in Mashonaland West Province are now living in fear of losing their entire livestock herds, as the thieves have been striking with alarming efficiency and scale.
<img alt="No photo description available." decoding="async" src="https://scontent.fhre1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/456605462_895008362647963_6375115718953703434_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&amp;ccb=1-7&amp;_nc_sid=833d8c&amp;_nc_ohc=T9wOVsGYXfQQ7kNvgG06HYL&amp;_nc_ht=scontent.fhre1-1.fna&amp;oh=00_AYDN3HErRKYW_XAC2PTxkW7kr7OnWjnQXQDmmAy73hPpnQ&amp;oe=66CF43C5"/>
The coordinated raids typically take place between 8 PM and 1 AM, with the thieves operating in a well-organised manner.
They quickly herd the cattle away, skin and debone the animals on-site, and then transport the meat away before the farmers can respond.
Evans Chitimbe, a local farmer, believes the stolen meat is being funnelled to restaurants in Harare and the surrounding areas. He said:
<blockquote>
If you buy sadza with meat in Harare, especially in Mbare, you just wonder at the size of the portion of the meat you get.
There is something sinister about the portions of meat, and the fact that it’s only steak without bones raises a lot of eyebrows.
</blockquote>
Headman Chitemerere reported that 47 goats, including two belonging to him personally, were stolen from his area last Friday. He said:
<blockquote>
My neighbour lost 27 goats in one night, I lost two, and my grandson lost 10 goats. It’s so disheartening to see these things persist in such a manner without a quick solution.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Inspector Kohwera has appealed to the public to come forward with any information that could aid the investigation.
He also issued a stern warning to the cattle rustlers, saying that the long arm of the law will eventually catch up with them. 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Cattle thieves have been stealing livestock in Mashonaland West, taking cows and goats and butchering them at night. They leave behind sacks of meat and knives. One farm lost 9 cows, with more expected to give birth. Police are investigating and trying to catch the thieves. Other farmers are scared they will lose their animals too. The meat is suspected to be sold in Harare restaurants. People are upset and want the thefts to stop. Police are asking for help to catch the criminals.

Cattle Rustlers Wreck Havoc In Mashonaland West

The Government has banned individual-based cattle sales to establish ward-based unit cattle sales.
This move is intended to protect farmers from unscrupulous buyers who exploit their desperation to purchase livestock at very low prices.
Speaking in Parliament last week, the Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement, Anxious Masuka, explained that the ban on all household-based and village-based cattle sales aims to prevent panic-selling.
This is particularly crucial given that some households may be compelled to offload their livestock due to the El Nino-induced drought.
According to an excerpt from the Hansard, the official verbatim record of parliamentary proceedings, cattle sales will now be centralised at designated ward-level drought mitigation centres on advertised calendar days.
This new system is expected to provide farmers with more structured and regulated sales opportunities, shielding them from exploitative practices. Said Masuka:
<blockquote>
This measure is intended to protect cattle from theft and ensure that farmers receive higher prices through a competitive bidding process.
The Deputy Minister, Hon. Marapira, is currently working to finalise the sales calendar for all 1,620 rural wards in the country, operationalising the proposed ward-based unit cattle sale.
</blockquote>
Masuka also said the Government has procured deep-drilling rigs that can reach depths of 400 metres.
Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister, Mthuli Ncube, recently scrapped the 15 per cent value-added tax (VAT) on live animal sales, a move that was welcomed by farmers.
Presenting the 2024 mid-term budget policy review last week, Ncube proposed the exemption of VAT on the sale of live animals to restore demand for meat while at the same time promoting formal trade in the livestock sector.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government has stopped people from selling cows in their villages. Now, they can only sell cows in specific places on certain days. This is to protect farmers from being tricked into selling their cattle for very low prices. The goal is to stop people from selling cows in a panic because of a drought. The government is also trying to help farmers get better prices for their cows by having a fair bidding process. Also, there will be no more tax on selling live animals to encourage people to trade livestock in a better way.

Government Bans Village-based Cattle Sales

Livestock farmers have welcomed the government’s recent decision to scrap the 15 per cent value-added tax (VAT) on live animal sales.
Presenting the 2024 mid-term budget policy review last week, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister, Mthuli Ncube, said 85 per cent of live animals were sourced from smallholder farmers, most of whom are ineligible for VAT registration, which means that the tax had no economic benefit to the country.
Ncube also noted that due to the El Nino-induced drought there had also been a decline in demand for livestock products.
Livestock farmers say the removal of 15 per cent VAT on live animal sales will lead to better-organised markets and improved profitability, ultimately contributing to the overall development of the agricultural sector.
Speaking to the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/farmers-hail-scrapping-of-vat-on-live-animal-sales/">Chronicle</a>, prominent Esigodini farmer, Obert Chinhamo of Biano Simmentals, said they have been lobbying the Government through various platforms to remove VAT, arguing that it pushed downward the prices of livestock since it was effected in January. Said Chinhamo:
<blockquote>
It is a very good move and as farmers we have been lobbying through various platforms to have the VAT issue reversed and we are grateful to the listening ears.
The buyers obviously with added VAT were pushing the cost to farmers and so, to a farmer, it meant we were paid a lower rate by 15 per cent or more.
So, if we retain the US$0,15 per dollar it means a significant amount is coming to the farmer…
We have the Beef Producer’s Society, Livestock and Meat Advisory Council (LMAC) and farmers’ unions. All have been actively lobbying on behalf of farmers.
</blockquote>
Last week, Ncube proposed the exemption of VAT on the sale of live animals to restore demand for meat while at the same time promoting formal trade in the livestock sector.
During the 2024 National Budget presentation in November 2023, Ncube announced that standard VAT increased to 15 per cent from 14,5 per cent effective January 1, 2024. This prompted an increase in the prices of meat products.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Livestock farmers are happy because the government removed the 15% VAT on live animal sales. The Finance Minister said most farmers could not benefit from the VAT, so it was not helping the country's economy. The drought also caused less demand for animal products. Farmers believe that removing the VAT will make markets better and they will make more money. A farmer named Chinhamo said the VAT made farmers get less money for their animals. The government wants to increase demand for meat and boost trade in livestock.

Farmers Welcome Removal Of VAT On Live Animal Sales

The government has banned household cattle sales and urged farmers to use village business unit (VBUs) auctions.
Speaking during a press conference held in Harare on Tuesday, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister Vangelis Haritatos, said with immediate effect, cattle sales would be conducted through ward-based business unit sales pens.
This development follows reports that villagers across the country are desperately selling their livestock at heavily discounted prices.
Faced with the threat of their cattle dying of starvation due to the severe shortage of grazing pastures caused by the El Niño-induced drought during the 2023/24 rainy season, these vulnerable communities are forced to offload their livestock for a fraction of their true value, rather than risk losing them entirely. Said Haritatos (via <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/no-cattle-sales-at-household-level-govt/">The Herald</a>):
<blockquote>
The Government wishes to declare that no sales be conducted at household level but through the village based business unit sale pens.
The Government has created village business units at ward level to assist farmers realise the best value for their animals during sales.
</blockquote>
Faced with the country’s worst drought in 40 years, President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared the drought a state of disaster.
The second crop and livestock assessment held in April indicated fair grazing and adequate drinking water availability for up to nine months in the good areas and against three months in the worst affected areas. Said Haritatos:
<blockquote>
For this reason, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has developed a myriad of drought mitigation strategies to prevent losses in all livestock species including beef, dairy cattle, pigs, goats, sheep and poultry.
Preparations are still underway to capacitate VBUs to hold livestock sales with at least 900 so far confirmed ready.
</blockquote>
He said the Government will coordinate ward-based sales and bring in buyers including abattoir operators.
Haritatos said the other services that will be offered at the VBUs include fodder production, feed formulation and processing of fodder as well as multi-purpose solar-powered boreholes to provide water for livestock and feedlot facilities.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Bans Cattle Sales At Household Level

The Government has warned farmers against allowing livestock to graze next to roadsides, saying it will not hesitate to confiscate them in terms of the law to prevent road accidents, reported the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/government-to-confiscate-stray-livestock-along-major-roads/">Chronicle</a>.
Statutory Instrument 308 of 1974 prohibits any person from allowing animals to graze near roads.
Addressing farmers last week, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister, Davis Marapira, said:
<blockquote>
It is indeed important that we pen our livestock, especially at night, and learn to do this to prevent them from roaming around highways causing injury, death and property damage.
I would also like to encourage the farmers to create fence paddocks as they act as barriers in the event that livestock may want to escape at night…
However, it is disheartening as we speak today that most of the fences were vandalised by us locals, defeating the purpose for which it was fenced.
Let us respect the warning signs. It is in this regard that I want to bring the Statutory Instrument 308 of 1974, which prohibits any person from allowing animals to graze near roads.
To avoid having your cattle confiscated, pen them. Remember, to be foretold is to be forearmed.
</blockquote>
The Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ), a parastatal under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, is fencing off the country’s highways as part of measures to reduce road traffic accidents.
TSCZ managing director, Munesu Munodawafa, said an average of five people die on local roads while about 38 people are injured daily.
He pleaded with members of the public to herd their cattle during the day and lock them at night to avoid the occurrence of accidents.
In 2019, the TSCZ, with the help of the Government, installed a highway fence from Gweru to Plumtree. The fence was however vandalised just a few weeks later.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Government Says To Confiscate Stray Livestock Along Major Roads

Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister, Anxious Masuka, has urged communal farmers to desist from selling their livestock at giveaway prices because of dwindling pastures caused by the El Nino-induced drought.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/communal-farmers-warned-against-selling-livestock-as-hunger-bites/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Masuka was responding to questions that had been raised by legislators during the Question and Answer session in the National Assembly on Wednesday.
He said the government was aware that farmers were “de-stocking” after the number of cattle sold in Matabeleland South from January to February 2024 has risen by 43%. Said Masuka:
<blockquote>
In different places, we have observed that farmers are busy de-stocking because they are worried about the quantities of the feed that they have, for instance in Matabeleland South, the cattle that were sold from January to February… we observed that the quantities have gone up by 43%. So, the majority are selling their cattle.
As the relevant Ministry, we urge farmers to stop rushing to sell their livestock. They should only sell those old oxen and cows.
The heifers and other young cows, we should keep them in stock so that we can use artificial insemination to ensure that we have pastures for the calves so that they cannot sell their cattle.
</blockquote>
Spencer Tshuma, the Gokwe-Kabuyuni MP (ZANU PF) had also asked what the Government was doing given that most communal farmers when faced with hunger sell their livestock for survival.
Tshuma wanted to know what help they could get considering that livestock movement is banned in some areas. Said Masuka:
<blockquote>
The Government has put in place, together with the Ministry headed by Minister July Moyo, a programme to ensure that all households countrywide are provided with adequate foodstuffs until next year.
We only allow the movement of livestock once the period of the ban has expired because if we allow this, we may fail to contain the disease.
</blockquote>
Reports suggest that farmers are struggling to sell their livestock. Minister Masuka said the Government is currently trying to revive a programme under which market days will be published.
The programme was formerly run by the Cold Storage Commission (CSC) but has since collapsed. Said Masuka:
<blockquote>
We are in the process of trying to revive such activities so that farmers can be able to buy and sell cattle. We have allowed the Agricultural Marketing Authority to do that process.
</blockquote>
The shortage of pastures and poor crop yields due to drought are some of the factors driving communal farmers to sell their cattle, not only to avoid losses as the animals may succumb to hunger but also to raise money for food and other necessities.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Warns Communal Farmers Against Selling Livestock As Hunger Bites

According to the latest report from USAID’s Famine Early Warning Systems Network (FEWSNET), approximately 9,000 cattle in Zimbabwe have succumbed to drought-related conditions. Additionally, over 1.4 million cattle are currently at high risk due to the scarcity of pasture and water.
FEWSNET has issued a warning that the limited availability of pasture during the dry season is likely to result in higher-than-normal livestock deaths. It said:
<blockquote>
In Zimbabwe, over 9 000 drought-related cattle deaths have been reported, and over 1,4 million cattle were reported as being at high risk of drought conditions and death due to lack of pasture and water.
Water and pasture conditions are expected to be poor, especially in typically low-rainfall areas following cumulatively below-average rainfall that has limited pasture regeneration throughout the rainy season.
Poor livestock body conditions, particularly for cattle, will likely lead to higher-than-normal livestock deaths in the dry season as the limited pastures deplete and high prices limit access to supplementary feeds.
</blockquote>
The agency said an increase in human-wildlife conflicts is expected in some areas bordering parks and forests as wild animals seek water and food among communities.
It further asserted that there was an urgent need for comprehensive national assessments of crop conditions, livestock health, and overall livelihood impacts of the extended dry conditions. FewsNet said:
<blockquote>
These assessments are crucial for accurately determining the extent of damage and areas requiring immediate intervention and will not only guide targeted relief efforts but also inform policy development and programme implementation aimed at enhancing agricultural resilience. Further, Member States need to start preparing for in-depth assessments that will inform responses.
</blockquote>
Southern Africa, including Zimbabwe, is experiencing extreme weather patterns due to climate change and El Nino.
El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon characterized by the periodic warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean.
In Southern Africa, El Niño tends to bring drier and warmer conditions. Reduced rainfall during El Niño events exacerbates droughts, affects crop yields, and impacts water availability.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

9 000 Cattle Succumb To Drought-related Conditions

Two men have been arrested for stealing 28 cattle in and around the Turf Area, Kadoma, Mashonaland West Province over a period of thirteen months.
Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the national police spokesperson, also confirmed the arrest of two other suspects for allegedly stealing two heifers in Kadoma. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Francis Masvora (54) and Takudzwa Masvora (26) in connection with a spate of stock theft cases in which the suspects stole 28 cattle in and around Turf Area, Kadoma from January 2023 to February 2024.
On the 27th Match 2024, a police crack team acted on received information and raided the two stock theft suspects at their place of residence in Eiffel Flats, Kadoma.
Investigations carried out by the police established that the suspects were in possession of 15 cattle which they failed to account for.
Resultantly, the arrest of the two suspects led to the recovery of eight cows, four heifers, one bull and two calves from the suspects’ kraal, which were all positively identified by five complainants.
Further investigations carried out by the police led to the recovery of 13 cattle which were sold to five buyers. The value of the recovered 28 cattle is US$14 000.00.
In a similar case, police in Kadoma arrested Munashe Mugova (23) and Julius Hlanayi (23) in connection with a case of stock theft which occurred on 16th March 2024 at Pamene Farm, Kadoma in which two heifers were stolen.
On 17th March 2024, the police attended the scene and raided the suspects’ plot. On seeing the police, the two suspects ran away leaving 13 cattle in the kraal.
Two heifers were positively identified by their owner and were subsequently recovered. Investigations by the police unearthed that 11 cattle were suspected to have been stolen and were handed over to the local headman for safekeeping awaiting identification by their rightful owners.
On 28th March 2024, the police acted on received information and conducted a raid at the suspects’ plot in Pamene Farm, Kadoma leading to their arrest.
Meanwhile, on 30th March 2024, police in Chikari acted on received information and arrested a meat vendor, Tawanda Musongeya (38) at his house in Meldon Ace Mine Compound, Chikari.
The police conducted search at his house leading to the recovery of beef amounting to a full carcass. The suspect implicated his brother Hardlife Musongeya and his brother-in-law Praise Mboni as his accomplices. On seeing the police, Hardlife Musongeya and Praise Mboni ran away.
Investigations carried out by the police revealed that the three suspects had assigned their wives Tirevei Jacob (32), Kudzanai Salimu (19) and Noster Simon (34) to sell the meat around Dalny Compound, Chakari. The trio was subsequently arrested.
Tawanda Musongeya led the police to Käbhanga grazing land for indications, where the police established that the suspects stole and slaughtered cattle in Mukamba Area, Chakari.
At the scene, the police recovered one brown hornless cow head, four hooves, offals and one brown hide. The police also noticed four decomposed brown cattle heads and one decomposed black cow head which were all seen at about 15 metres from the scene.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of the two outstanding stock theft suspects, Hardlife Musongeya (25) and Praise Mboni (28) who are being sought in connection with this case.
Anyone with information to report at any nearest police station or contact our National Complaints desk on (0242) 703631 or WhatsApp on 0712 800 197.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two Men Arrested For Stealing 28 Cattle In Kadoma

Farmers in Matabeleland have implored the Government to review its policy of destroying livestock driven into another zone without permits or proper clearance.
Some of the farmers who spoke to <a href="https://newsday.co.zw/southerneye/local/article/200023867/farmers-want-livestock-policy-reviewed">Southern Eye</a> said the policy is too harsh and retrogressive.
Nkayi Community Parliament deputy speaker and communal farmer, Nkosilathi Ncube, said cattle should only be destroyed if they are diseased. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
I am against the killing of animals but I suggest the government must impound the animals and if it’s the owner, they can fine the owner and give them back their animals.
If it’s an unknown person the cattle must be forfeited to the state. Unless they have some disease, then they can be quarantined or destroyed.
We must use the local Neighbourhood Watch committee members to assist in the clearing of cattle and put in place community policing forums to ensure that the cattle that are transported are properly cleared and those who are caught stealing cattle must face the mandatory jail term.
</blockquote>
Matabeleland South farmer and Kirton Farmers Association chairperson, Moketsi Basuthu, said:
<blockquote>
The modus operandi of getting a vet permit and stock clearance from the police needs to be better oiled so that farmers don’t struggle when they have to move their livestock.
</blockquote>
Destruction of livestock to farmers naturally speaks to loss of livelihood.
<blockquote>
Again, we don’t expect a farmer who has his livelihood at heart and that of his fellow farming community to will-nilly move their stock without requisite authority.
The Fencing Provisions Act is poorly enforced, yet it should be there to augment the Disease Management and Livestock Movement Act.
</blockquote>
Another farmer from Matabeleland South Province Ben Moyo, however, expressed his support for the policy of destroying impounded livestock. He said:
<blockquote>
People need clearance to move cattle. We simply have to follow the law which will enable our animals to be healthy and as farmers, we can make more money from them.
If our cattle for example were to stray into Botswana, because cattle are big business in Botswana they will shoot them.
</blockquote>
On 24 February, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development issued a notice calling on farmers to desist from illegally moving livestock without proper documentation.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Farmers Implore Govt To Review Livestock Policy

Twenty-three cattle died in Rixton Village, Mhangura, Zimbabwe on January 13, 2024, likely due to cyanide poisoning. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is investigating the incident. According to a statement seen by Pindula News, the police said the cattle died immediately after drinking water from a stream near a gold ore leaching plant. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
Police in Mhangura are investigating circumstances surrounding the death of 23 cattle due to suspected cyanide poisoning which occurred on 13/01/24 at Rixton Village 4. The cattle died on the spot after drinking water from a stream near a gold ore leaching plant.
</blockquote>
Cattle have great importance in Zimbabwe and Africa as a symbol of wealth. Losing 23 cattle, as happened in this incident, is a significant loss for both the individuals affected and the entire nation. Cattle are valuable assets that contribute to the national herd, so losing them means losing a substantial amount of wealth. It is a loss that impacts not only the immediate owners but also the wider community and the country as a whole.
This incident raises concerns about the discharge of water contaminated with harmful substances into rivers by gold miners, which poses risks to both humans and animals.
The case is not the first one of its nature. In March 2022, a Chinese-owned gold mine near Karoi reportedly spilt cyanide-laced slimes into the Angwa River, resulting in the death of fish and endangering the lives of villagers downstream. In July of the same year, it was reported that gold miners in Mudzi and Nyanga were releasing water containing poisonous substances, including cyanide and mercury, into rivers. This pollution caused the death of livestock and potential health complications for villagers. Kunyu Mining (Pvt) Ltd, a Chinese-owned company, was specifically highlighted as a major polluter, discharging waste into the Nyamombe River.
The pollution of rivers in Manicaland became so widespread that neighbouring Mozambique lodged a formal complaint with Zimbabwean authorities.
<h3><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h3>

23 Cattle Die On Spot After Drinking Water Near A Gold Ore Leaching Plant

A lightning bolt struck and killed 16 herd of cattle belonging to three families in Mbembesi 1, in Lupane East Constituency.
The lightning incident occurred last week on Thursday.
Kusile Rural District Councillor for Ward 23 Fibion Ngwenya said of the 16 beasts, 13 belonged to one family while two other families lost two and one respectively. Ngwenya said:
<blockquote>
Yes, 16 cattle were struck dead by lightning in my ward. Thirteen of them belong to one person while another family had two and another one beast struck dead.
They went to see the carcasses and could not do anything because culturally they cannot be burnt which happens even when a tree is struck by lightning.
It is first cut and gathered together. So, they ended up digging a trench and burying them all.
</blockquote>
Culturally, it is taboo to touch anything struck by lightning or burn it before some rituals are performed, reported <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/lightning-kills-16-cattle/">the Chronicle</a>.
The items can then be burnt or buried underground and it is believed that this prevents further lightning strikes.
Early this month, Evans Moyo (22) and his three-year-old daughter were struck dead by lightning while at home in Ndimimbili Village under Chief Mabhikwa, Lupane.
Moyo’s wife, Nomatter (23) was left with burns and she was treated at St Luke’s Hospital and discharged.

Lightning Strike Kills 16 Herd Of Cattle

A coal-laden Botswana-registered haulage truck ploughed into eleven herd of cattle and killed nine of them on the spot near Halfway Hotel along the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls road on Wednesday night.
The truck was going towards Bulawayo and a herd of cattle that was crossing the road in Lupane’s Chimwara resettlement area.
The cattle belonged to four families, and according to Kusile Rural District Councillor for Chimwara Ward 25 Kawulani Muzamba, some of the victims lost all their cattle. Said Muzamba:
<blockquote>
There was an accident where some people lost cattle which died following an accident that happened yesterday near Halfway Hotel.
The truck hit 11 cattle and nine died while two are in a bad condition and there is no hope for life for them.
</blockquote>
Alois Tshuma lost three beasts and two were injured while Busani Nyathi lost one.
Jeffrey Ncube’s only two beasts died while Joshua Hlabangana had three of his cattle killed by the accident.
The councillor said the owners of the beasts ended up selling the meat and carcasses at giveaway prices to avoid further losses to wildlife scavengers and decomposition.
There were no human injuries or fatalities as a result of the accident. | <a href="https://cite.org.zw/truck-ploughs-into-herd-of-cattle-nine-killed-on-the-spot/">CITE</a>

Haulage Truck Ploughs Into 11 Herd Of Cattle

A sixty-seven-year-old widow from Hwange lost almost her entire herd of cattle and goats overnight to a pride of lions.
Jenifer Khupe, from the Chief Mvuthu area in Matabeleland North’s Hwange West district, said the incident happened on the night of 8 September when she was in the process of selling one of her cows in order to buy food.
Speaking to <a href="https://vicfallslive.co.zw/hwange-villagers-lose-livestock-to-marauding-lions/">VicFallsLive</a>, Khupe said their crops were destroyed by elephants during the previous farming season.
She said a total of seven lions killed seven of her 13 herd of cattle that night and 10 goats. Khupe said:
<blockquote>
I was in Plumtree when I received a phone call from my son who told me that lions had killed almost all our livestock.
Our kraal was secured in a way that repels predators. It was secured even at the rooftop, but because these lions are now used to marauding around people’s homesteads even during the day, they have become so daring that they can dig deep to gain entry into the kraals.
My son was sleeping at home and he was awoken by neighbours who heard noise from the kraals and they mobilised themselves to scare the lions away.
</blockquote>
But it was too late to save the livestock from the predators as the villagers found Khupe’s herd of cattle almost wiped out. Said Khupe:
<blockquote>
The lions killed the entire herd of cattle through suffocation and devoured the carcasses, so much that we couldn’t salvage any meat.
As for the goats they just killed seven of them, but left the carcasses untouched.
</blockquote>
A local wildlife conservation organisation bought the cattle carcasses for less than US$150.

Widow Loses 7 Herd Of Cattle, 10 Goats To Lions In One Night

Cattle rustlers from Zambia are allegedly crossing the border into Zimbabwe and stealing livestock from Binga villagers, taking advantage of the lack of visibility by the police.
This was said by Binga South MP Gabbuza Gabbuza (MDC Alliance) during the National Assembly’s questions with notice session last Wednesday.
Gabbuza wanted to know why there have been no arrests of “cattle rustlers from Zambia, who have been stealing livestock in Saba and Lubanda wards.”
He also demanded that Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe explain the measures “the government has instituted to curb commission of such crimes and recover the stolen livestock that have been identified across the border.”
In response, Kazembe said at the recently held Zambia-Zimbabwe Joint Permanent Commission on Security and Defence (JPC) in Livingstone Zambia it was agreed that police services from the two countries would work hand in glove to combat the crime. He said:
<blockquote>
As I speak efforts are underway to address the scourge.
On arrests, I would have to find out if there are any known culprits from Zambia that our police officers have failed to arrest after receiving information on stock theft.
It could be an issue of lack of information resulting in no arrests being done.
But as a country, whoever is involved in such acts, whether locals or foreigners, the law will take its course.
</blockquote>
Kazembe said his ministry was in the process of giving police officers patrol vehicles and other electronic gadgets like drones to fight crime. He added:
<blockquote>
We have started with Matabeleland South where to date we have established police bases in known areas that these livestock rustlers use when crossing into or outside Zimbabwe.
I would also like to engage you the honourable member together with the commissioner general of police to identify strategic places where we can establish police bases to patrol the affected areas of Saba and Lubanda.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://vicfallslive.co.zw/index.php/2022/11/05/zambian-cross-border-rustlers-terrorise-binga-villagers/">VicFallsLive</a>

Zambian Cattle Rustlers Terrorise Binga Villagers

A suspected cattle thief from Somnene Plot in Plumtree, Matabeleland South Province, appeared in court recently after his now-deceased friend and accomplice made a confession on his deathbed.
Just before he died, Lovemore Mhlanga reportedly confessed to his aunt Loveness Mhlanga (51) from Efusini extension in Tsholotsho, that he had connived with one of her relatives, Kenneth Kenesi Sibanda (56), to steal her cattle.
In total, Lovemore and Kenneth stole three beasts that Loveness had given to Lovemore for safekeeping.
This came out when Sibanda appeared before Tsholotsho resident magistrate Victor Mpofu facing three counts of stock theft as defined in Section 114 (2) (a) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act Chapter 9:23.
Sibanda, who pleaded not guilty to all three counts was remanded in custody to 25 August.
The prosecutor, Asher Chindedza, told the court that sometime in 2010, the complainant, Loveness, gave 10 head of cattle to her uncle Lovemore, who is now deceased.
She gave the cattle to Lovemore for safe keeping as she did not have a kraal at her homestead.
It is alleged that at that time, Lovemore, who was staying at Remta Village in Nyamandlovu, agreed and the cattle were registered in his name.
The court was told that Lovemore connived with Kenneth and took one of the heifers valued at US$400, to his rural home in Plumtree where it later calved twice.
In 2018, Lovemore again connived with Kenneth to sell Loveness’s ox valued at US$600.
Kenneth then moved the beast from Remta Village, Nyamandlovu to his homestead in Plumtree where he later sold it, the court heard.
The State alleged that sometime in 2019, the now deceased again connived with Sibanda and took Loveness’ bull that was under his care and again sold it in Plumtree. The bull was reportedly valued at US$800.
In all three counts, the accused never had a police clearance of any of the transactions yet the beasts were moved from Nyamandlovu to Plumtree.
However, when Lovemore became sick and on his deathbed, he allegedly confessed to Loveness that one of her heifers was taken by Sibanda and that it had two calves.
He also told Loveness that she was supposed to get some of the beasts from the accused as replacements for the ones which they had sold without her consent.
It is alleged that after Lovemore’s death, Loveness confronted Kenneth who requested a meeting so that they could resolve the issue amicably.
The two agreed that Kenneth would return the cattle to Loveness and was even given US$800 to clear the beasts from Plumtree to Nyamandlovu.
However, Kenneth took the money but did not return the cattle leading the complainant to report the matter to the police and inform them about Lovemore’s confession.
More: <a href="https://www.bmetro.co.zw/deathbed-confession-cattle-thief-arrested-after-accomplice-reveals-crime/">B-Metro</a>

Deathbed Confession Leads To Arrest Of Suspect, Years Later

Forty (40) farmers from the Matabeleland region on Wednesday handed over 13 cattle to the Mpofu family of Dolahali in Nkayi District, which lost 21 cattle after they were mistakenly dosed with a deadly grain protectant.
A total of 16 cattle were donated but two of the beasts will be handed over to the family at a later date.
Two of the beasts could not be ferried to Bulawayo on time while the other one could not be moved due to foot and mouth quarantine measures.
The animal will be sold and proceeds from the sale will be used to buy a cow from a green zone for the family.
The herd of cattle cost about US$25 000 and was handed over to the Mpofu family at the Bulawayo Veterinary Services Department offices.
The family also received cash, hay bales, transport, fuel, medication, dipping chemicals, vaccines and molasses, which added up to a donation value of US$40 000, from well-wishers.
Speaking on behalf of the 40 farmers, prominent farmer and former National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) general manager and board chairman, Alvord Mabhena, said:
<blockquote>
When this story broke out in the media, we were told the Mpofu family had lost and buried their 21 head of cattle all valued at US$8 500, at least according to the newspaper.
Right now, we are looking at a total value of 16 top-quality heifers and an equally top-quality bull, all valued at US$25 000.
In addition, all other donations in kind and as outlined above amount to an additional US$15 000, totalling some US$40 000 from some 40 farmers altogether.
Not only have we donated cattle and sundry, but we have helped the Mpofu family to invest for the future with some of the best breeds you can find in the country, helped them restock, and helped the Nkayi community to benefit from the country’s top-quality progeny you are looking at right now.
</blockquote>
A family representative, Dennis Mpofu, who was at the event, was at a loss of words following the donation. He said:
<blockquote>
Words alone are not enough for us to express our gratitude for the love you have given to us as family.
You have helped my children and by that, you are now part and parcel of the Mpofu family.
I urge all farmers to take all precautions to avoid such disasters happening again.
We are starting a new life as farmers in how we view cattle and we appreciate the farmers’ field school that will be opened at our homestead to assist other farmers.
</blockquote>
Dennis was accompanied to the handover ceremony by Orderly Mpofu, who administered the dose leading to the death of the cattle, and Lindani Mpofu, who bought the grain protectant.
The cattle were loaded onto a truck organised by the farmers to take them to their new kraal in Nhlekisa Village following a short handover presentation.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/watch-matebeleland-farmers-bail-out-nkayi-family-donate-16-cattle-cash-and-kind/">Chronicle</a></h4>

Nkayi Family Receives 16 Cattle, Cash, Vaccines, Molasses

Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe has encouraged farmers to take advantage of its Agribusiness advisory services, as well as livestock insurance cover to mitigate against various challenges brought about by climatic change and other natural factors to cushion themselves against potential losses.
The Standard Bank Group subsidiary’s Head, Agribusiness, Tawanda Maposah said Stanbic’s Agribusiness unit is on hand to offer sound financial solutions to commercial farmers for them to protect and maximise their investments. Said Maposah:
<blockquote>
We have a comprehensive portfolio of advisory services which covers a diverse section of the economy and Zimbabwe being an agro-driven economy, one such sector in which we provide viable financial solutions is agriculture.
To that end, commercial farmers can take advantage of our experienced bankers from the Agribusiness Unit for solid financial solutions.
</blockquote>
Maposah also urged cattle farmers to insure their livestock against diseases such as anthrax, Foot and Mouth and January disease which have been wiping out cattle in various parts of the country over the last few years.
Stanbic Bank Head, Client Solutions, Tich Zuze said the leading financial services institution works with insurance partners to provide comprehensive insurance cover which not only protects cattle but extends to other livestock. Said Zuze:
<blockquote>
While anthrax, Foot and Mouth and January disease on cattle are a major concern, the livestock insurance cover extends to accidental death, emergency slaughter on the advice of a recognized veterinary surgeon and theft of livestock in raising units or paddocks.
</blockquote>
Livestock covered include dairy cattle, beef cattle, poultry, pigs, sheep and goats. The cattle can also be insured against a wide range of other perils such as fire, smoke and lightning. Added Zuze:
<blockquote>
While our insurance portfolio is wide-ranging, farmers are urged to cushion themselves against the loss of their cattle from anthrax, Foot and Mouth and January disease by taking advantage of our user-friendly packages. They get to receive a 60% cover limit.
</blockquote>
The cattle are also covered against impact by road vehicles or railway locomotives; snake bites; accidental electrocution; non-political riot and strikes; malicious injury; flooding, earthquake and storm damage.
Zuze said the theft of cattle, for which there should be an accompanying police report, as well as the use of force or violence against workers while animals are in paddocks or grazing in addition to calving losses are also covered under the comprehensive cattle insurance.
He said any accidental death or injury; drowning; the collapse of a building; falling into a pit or being hit by a falling tree as well as transit risks -within a radius of 25kms are all insurable perils for cattle. He said:
<blockquote>
The benefits of the cover include protection from loss of valuable animals as well as affordable cover as it is tailor-made to an individual’s needs at competitive rates. As for the cost, the premiums are based on one’s needs and business risk profile.
</blockquote>
In 2020, 200 cattle are said to have succumbed to anthrax while hundreds more died due to the January disease that hit many parts of the country.
January disease is still a cause of concern countrywide with parts of Mashonaland West and Masvingo the hardest.
Anthrax hit Gokwe, Nkayi, Gutu, Bikita, Marondera, Mazowe, Chegutu, Makonde and Sanyati.
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

Stanbic Bank Urges Farmers To Insure Their Livestock

Makoni Central constituency legislator, David Tekeshe (MDC Alliance), was awarded six cattle by a traditional leader as compensation after opposition political activists barred him from addressing mourners at a funeral.
Teddy Chipere (44) and Talent Hare (38), both of Vengere, and four other MDC-A activists were recently fined a beast and a goat each by Chief Makoni for chasing away MrTekeshe from the same funeral.
Chief Makoni ruled that it was taboo for strangers to chase away mourners as it was tantamount to accusing Tekeshe of causing the deceased’s death.
Tekeshe was awarded the six beasts, while the six goats were meant for the chief’s court.
The activists have since appealed against the chief’s ruling at the Rusape Civil Court, and the matter is yet to be heard.
Meanwhile, Tekeshe filed a police report against Chipere and Hare for allegedly blocking him from giving graveyard eulogies at a party member’s funeral despite being accorded the opportunity to do so by the deceased’s family members.
The duo appeared before Rusape magistrate Annie Ndiraya last week on Tuesday facing allegations of promoting public violence.
They entered a plea of not guilty and were expected back in court on 12 October for trial.
Public prosecutor, Innocent Mwoyondizvo, told the court that Chipere and Hare denied Tekeshe a chance to address mourners, saying they did not recognise him as a Member of the National Assembly since he was not from their party. Said Mwonyondizvo:
<blockquote>
On January 13, 2021, at Silverbow Cemetery, Chipere and Hare were among other mourners who were burying a fellow party member.
The Member of National Assembly for Makoni Central, Mr David Tekeshe, was given the floor to make a speech and the two accused persons barred him from proceeding.
They argued that they did not recognise him as their representative.
They started chanting a song: “Taramba kupihwa order nemasaskum”, [we won’t be given orders by imbeciles] denigrating him. Other mourners joined them, thereby breaching the peace.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/mp-barred-from-funerals/">Manica Post</a></h4>

MDC-A MP Awarded 6 Cattle After Funeral Fracas

ZANU PF youths have threatened to invade the homes of senior MDC officials and loot their property, accusing them of causing the suffering of ordinary citizens through calling for the imposition of sanctions by Western countries.
Coordinator of the Zanu PF-linked youth pressure group, Citizens Concerned, Taurai Kandishaya told NewZimbabwe.com that they have finalised arrangements to invade MDC president <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nelson_Chamisa" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nelson Chamisa’s</a> rural Gutu home and feast on his cattle and goats. Said Kandishaya:
<blockquote>In Gutu, our team said they are ready. Chamisa’s rural home has cattle and goats, we will eat those if they do not feed us. We will be safe.
We will not be carrying any food, we will eat at his home and use his toilets. Some of these people think we do not have their addresses, let them wait for the weekend and they will see for sure we know where they stay.
We had a meeting with our constituency coordinators on Wednesday to determine the amount of fuel available, tents and blankets just in case they do not allow us in and drums for our entertainment. I can safely say our preparations are on 80% now.</blockquote>
Meanwhile, MDC Vice-Chairperson <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Job_Sikhala" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Job Sikhala</a> told the publication that he has also mobilised party youths to protect his home and has since moved his family to a safer place.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zanu-pf-youths-to-feed-on-chamisas-cattle-goats-in-rural-gutu/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

ZANU PF 'Hooligans' Threaten To Feast On Chamisa's Cows & Goats

A security guard employed at <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Tawanda_Nyambirai" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Tawanda Nyambirai’s</a> farm allegedly killed 123 cattle worth nearly $1,4 million belonging to the businessman.
The guard, Paradzai Kamwaza, thought to be 18 but claims to be 17, was employed as a security guard at Marvel Farm livestock. He appeared before Harare magistrate Rumbidzai Mugwagwa on Thursday.
Kamwaza was remanded in custody to February 7 pending a determination of his age.
He is alleged to have connived with Timothy Katsekete, who is still at large, to administer poison to the cattle during feeding.
The duo allegedly used a poisonous herbicide called paraquat, leading to the death of 123 cattle.
Nyambirai’s farm had 544 cattle of various breeds and those that succumbed to the poison were 47 of mixed breed, 21 heifers mixed breed, 46 heifers Brahman, 21 mixed breed and nine steers.
421 cattle survived but are reported to be in a grim state.
The motive for poisoning the cattle is not yet known.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/guard-poisons-nyambirais-544-cattle/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

Guard Poisons 544 Cattle On Top Harare Lawyer & Businessman's Farm

Severe drought has resulted in the death of thousands of cattle in the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Matabeleland_province" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Matabeleland</a> regions as pastures are depleted and water sources are drying up.
Stakeholders believe that if no action is taken immediately, thousands of more cattle will die and farmers will not be able to recover. The chairman of Livestock Farmers Trade Union, Sifiso Sibanda, had this to say:
<blockquote>It has been the national herd that has been affected. We have a situation whereby livestock is dropping like flies. In Matabeleland, large numbers of animals are dying while this is the beef basket of the country.
No one is doing anything to help the farmers and after this season farmers will be left impoverished and they won’t be able to recover.</blockquote>
The Department of Livestock and Veterinary Services says in Matabeleland South alone, 4 539 cattle have died with the most affected district being <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Beitbridge" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Beitbridge</a> with 1 057 cattle dead.
The other districts’ casualties read as follows: Insiza 918, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Gwanda" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Gwanda</a> 600, Matobo 524, Mangwe 498, and Umzingwane 330.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/drought-decimates-5-000-cattle-beef-prices-set-to-skyrocket-as-recurrent-dry-conditions-slaughter-national-herd-matabeleland-south-loses-65pc-of-herd-since-1992-national-herd-stands/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sunday News</a></h4>

'Cattle Dying Like Flies Due To Drought'

The family of a  Masvingo woman has agreed to pay a 23 cattle to their in-laws as compensation after their relative allegedly killed her husband. Mavis Madenga (33) has already confessed that she killed her husband Joseph Marisa (40) on Saturday around 3AM. After killing her husband by striking him with an axe, Mavis set fire to the hut and burnt Marisa’s body beyond recognition. According to Madenga, she killed her husband because of his indifference to her after he had caught her cheating. She allegedly said:
<blockquote>He should have at least shouted at me.</blockquote>
Her relatives have already paid 13 cattle out of the agreed 23, with the remaining 10 to be paid within 3 months.
Mavis’s uncle and village head Mr Simon Madenga (56) said:
<blockquote>Our son-in-law was a nice, polite person and out of our eight sons-in-law, Marisa was the best. Our daughter is an adulterous woman and she is responsible for Marisa’s death hence we are paying 23 beasts as compensation</blockquote>
More: <a href="http://www.chronicle.co.zw/womans-family-pays-23-cattle-after-husband-slaughter-by-cheating-wife/">Chronicle</a>

Woman's family pays 13 out of 23 cattle to in-laws after cheating wife kills husband

About 500 cattle have reportedly died due to drought in Matabeleland South province since June this year, as most pastures and water sources have dried up due to this year’s prolonged dry spell.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ workshop organised by the Food and Agricultural Organisation in Bulawayo on Tuesday, the province’s livestock specialist, Simangaliso Ngwabi, said,
<blockquote>All districts indicate that all classes of livestock across all farming sectors are in a fair to poor condition, 20% of the livestock in communal lands in the province is in a fair condition and 80% poor. In commercial farms, the condition is fair to good. However, comparing the current situation to last year, the situation has declined, as during the same period last year, 50% of the livestock was in good condition.</blockquote>
Ngwabi also said major dams are 40% full on average, while small ones and rivers are dry.

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