OVER 100 CATTLE DEAD IN GWEMBE AS DISEASE SPREADS

A devastating livestock disease outbreak has claimed the lives of 106 cattle in Kkota Kkota Ward, leaving 43 livestock farmers from various parts of the ward struggling with significant losses.

Kkota Kkota Ward Councillor, Edward Gama, confirmed the tragic development, highlighting the widespread impact of the outbreak on the livelihoods of local farmers. The councillor expressed concern over the dire situation and emphasized the urgent need for government intervention to prevent further losses.

Gama has called on the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries to urgently assign a veterinary officer to the affected area. According to him, the presence of a veterinary expert would not only improve animal welfare and health but also enhance efforts to control and prevent the spread of the disease.

The cause of the outbreak remains unclear, with the District Veterinary Officer yet to provide an official statement or details about the disease affecting livestock in Gwembe’s Chipepo Chiefdom. However, the lack of immediate veterinary services in the region has raised alarm among farmers, who depend heavily on livestock for their livelihoods.

This outbreak highlights the vulnerability of rural communities to animal health crises and underscores the importance of accessible veterinary services. As cattle are a key source of income and food security for farmers in Southern Province, the situation poses a significant threat to the local economy.

The affected farmers are appealing for support from both the government and other stakeholders to contain the disease and mitigate the economic impact. Immediate actions, such as the deployment of veterinary officers, provision of vaccines, and dissemination of disease prevention measures, are critical to addressing the crisis.

Further updates are expected as authorities work to identify the disease and implement control measures.
By Helga Chibwe