The ManicaPost
Liberty Dube
Post Correspondent
A TOTAL of 90 goats had succumbed to an unknown disease in Chimanimani by Wednesday afternoon.
Chief Saurombe confirmed the development, and said they were afraid that the disease would spread to other parts of the district.
The most affected area is Ward 17.
The goats, according to Chief Saurombe, started succumbing to the unknown disease from last week on Monday.
The goats were recently handed over to villagers in some parts of Chimanimani by a development partner as part of efforts to restock livestock for those who were affected by the 2019 Cyclone Idai.
Chief Saurombe said: “I believe when villagers received the goats, they failed to properly maintain them. Our investigations showed that the goats are a rare breed. They originate from Buhera. A total of 720 goats were donated to locals here, and so far 90 of them have died.
“The death rate is alarming because losing 90 goats in two weeks is a major setback. Villagers are now in a panic mode, and every day they come to my homestead for advice on the way forward. We hope something will be done as a matter of urgency because the whole trip might be wiped out. We also hope the Veterinary Services Department will come to our rescue before it is too late.”
Chimanimani veterinary officer, Mr Tawanda Musomali, said investigations were underway.
“Yes, we have heard about the cases, and have launched investigations into the matter. We will give more details after our investigations. We understand that the disease affected goats from only one ward. The situation is, however, under the control,” he said.
