Arron Nyamayaro
An award-winning agricultural specialist has been suspended without pay after two cows allegedly died in a dog attack at Shumba Boran Stud in Hwedza.
Farm manager Alfonso Chayambuka is being held responsible for the deaths of cows identified as BTR 16-42 and FE11-280.
The farm’s owner, Richard Matewa, says one of the cows was carrying a calf.
In a letter to Chayambuka, Matewa’s lawyers, Zimudzi and Associates Legal Practitioners, said he had been suspended without pay and benefits pending investigations into alleged misconduct.
The lawyers said the dogs attacked the cattle on October 30, 2026, and demanded US$8,000 in compensation: US$3,000 for one cow, US$1,500 for its potential calf and US$3,500 for the other cow.
They also demanded US$500 in handover fees, plus collection commission, and gave Chayambuka five days to pay before legal proceedings are launched.
Chayambuka is also accused of failing to ensure cattle were fed on time despite feed being available, delaying dehorning, failing to report sick cattle promptly and not following up on treatment.
He is expected to appear at a hearing in Harare today.
