Eight farm workers at Syringa Two Farm, of Nega Nega Chief Naluama’s area in Mazabuka District, are reportedly losing finger nails, after handling herbicides with bare hands.
Enelly Nyeleti tells Diamond news that finger nails started falling after she, alongside other workers, were tasked by their supervisors to apply a weed killer called Gramoxone without gloves.
An emotional Ms. Nyeleti says even after receiving treatment at Mazabuka General Hospital, her nails have continued falling off.
She adds that she is concerned about possible lifelong consequences of having come into contact with the substance and the effects may lead to joblessness of some workers.
When contacted for a comment, a supervisor named Clement Siponzya, said he could only give a comment after he is granted approval by his superiors.
Gramoxone herbicide is a restricted highly toxic chemical used for weed control.
By Helga Chibwe