Farmers in Chuundwe and Siamafumba Wards of Zimba District have raised concern over the reported deaths of dozens of cattle suspected to be caused by heartwater disease, a tick-borne livestock disease.
Some farmers who spoke to Diamond News claim that they have lost more than 30 cattle, while others report losing about 20 animals, calling on authorities to urgently intervene and contain the disease.
However, Zimba District Veterinary Officer Dr Ronald Maluza has confirmed that only nine cattle deaths have so far been officially recorded as being caused by heartwater disease, disputing the higher figures reported by farmers.
Dr Maluza says measures have been put in place to control the disease, including sensitising farmers on the importance of regularly dipping their animals and preventing them from roaming freely.
He explains that inadequate pasture has forced some livestock to move long distances in search of grazing land, with some animals failing to return home, thereby increasing their exposure to ticks and livestock diseases.
Dr Maluza has also identified gallbladder enlargement as another livestock health concern, adding that regular dipping is among the recommended measures to help protect cattle against tick-borne diseases.
He says sensitisation meetings targeting livestock farmers are currently underway to raise awareness and encourage proper animal health management.
By Helga Chibwe
