Story by Memory Chamisa
Rhinos have succumbed to contamination from cyanobacteria in the water sources at Lake Chivero Recreational Park.
Three zebras, four wildebeests, four fish eagles as well as goats and cattle from nearby farms died from the contamination.
Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority spokesperson, Mr Tinashe Farawo confirmed the loss of wildlife.
“Four rhinos have died due to contamination from cyanobacteria in the water sources at Lake Chivero Recreational Park. Despite the interventions by veterinarians from the University of Zimbabwe and our Vet department, the contamination has also impacted other wildlife in the area resulting in the loss of three zebras, four wildebeests, four fish eagles, as well as goats and cattle from nearby farms. To mitigate the risk, we implemented measures to deter the animals from drinking from the affected dam by placing salt blocks and game nuts around the park, as well as distributing water drops. Regrettably, these efforts proved to not be enough, as the animals continued to drink from the lake,” he said.
Mr Farawo called for collective responsibility to protect and preserve wildlife by addressing threats to their populations and habitat loss.
“Rhinos symbolise strength and resilience, but they face unprecedented threats that require immediate and sustained action. As a country, we are committed to sustainably manage the species. Zimbabwe boasts the fourth-largest black rhino population globally, after South Africa, Namibia and Kenya.”
One of the biggest threats to Lake Chivero is pollution from sewage effluent, industrial and domestic waste, as well as fertiliser and pesticide runoff from farms.
