Story by Peter Chivhima
MORE than 50 cattle have been euthanised by the Department of Veterinary Services since the beginning of this year after being moved across the country illegally.
The measure serves to guard against the spread of cattle diseases.
The figure was disclosed by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Deputy Director of Veterinary Field Services, Dr Reverend Spargo this Saturday.
“We have noted with great concern the rise in illegal cattle movement. Since the beginning of this year, we have destroyed more than 50 cattle for moving without the necessary documents which are livestock movement permits. We are calling for citizens to acquire the documents before moving their cattle. Why it is necessary is, we need to make sure that the movement does not spread diseases across the country. This will also curb the rampant cattle rustling,” said Dr Spargo.
The government also implored farmers to acquire the necessary documents to avoid losses.
“We are encouraging farmers to acquire the documents because those cattle found moving without necessary documents will be destroyed. We have discovered that those cattle being moved illegally have the potential of spreading diseases,” added Dr Spargo.
In a bid to turn around the livestock sector, the government is rolling out several initiatives to protect the national herd which includes the Presidential Blitz Tick Grease Programme and the rehabilitation and construction of dip tanks.
