Health and Environment
HARARE – Zimbabwe has declared an immediate nationwide ban on all livestock movement and deployed 300,000 emergency vaccines after a dangerous Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak spread through Gutu, Masvingo, and Chivhu districts, threatening the nation’s food security ambitions.
Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Davis Marapira confirmed the drastic measures:
“We are strategically deploying vaccines to protect Zimbabwe’s most valuable livestock. Over 300,000 doses will ring-fence pedigree breeders and dairy farmers – our seed stock must survive this.”
The free vaccines target high-risk zones as authorities scramble to contain the highly contagious virus affecting cattle, goats, pigs, and sheep.
Critical Measures Implemented:
- Total Movement Ban: All livestock transport prohibited without written clearance from Provincial Veterinary Directors.
- Market Suspension: Auctions, shows, and livestock markets halted indefinitely in quarantined areas.
- Vehicle Disinfection: Checkpoints established at strategic control zones.
- Legal Enforcement: Offenders face prosecution under the Animal Health Act, with animals impounded.
Chief Veterinary Director Dr. Pious Makaya warned of dire consequences:
“This isn’t precaution – it’s necessity. Laxity will destroy livelihoods, cripple meat/dairy supplies, and sabotage our national herd expansion to 11 million cattle.”
The outbreak strikes as neighbouring South Africa battles FMD in KwaZulu-Natal and Free State, exposing regional vulnerabilities.
Urgent Public Appeal:
Dr. Makaya urged nationwide vigilance:
“Report unusual livestock deaths or illegal movements immediately. Our teams are on the ground, but victory requires every farmer, transporter, and citizen to join this fight.” Veterinary officers now work with police to enforce compliance.
The outbreak threatens Zimbabwe’s critical food security targets, with FMD causing devastating production losses through fever, mouth blisters, and hoof lesions in infected animals.
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