Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
CALLS are intensifying for Zimbabwe to outlaw the ownership of pit bull dogs following the breed’s latest fatal attack, which claimed the life of Harare resident Samuel Machara. He was tragically mauled to death by his neighbour’s dog over the weekend, reigniting public outcry and urgent demands for action.
This tragic event adds to a growing list of fatal pit bull attacks in Zimbabwe. In May 2022, John Gavhera from Selbourne Park, Bulawayo, was killed by his own pit bulls after jumping over his wall to access his house, having forgotten his keys. In March 2023, a nine-year-old girl died from injuries sustained in a pit bull attack in Harare’s Whitecliffe suburb. That same month, a 68-year-old security guard was fatally attacked by a pit bull at business premises along Sherwood Crescent in Waterfalls, Harare.
In response, gospel artist Tembalami has launched an online petition calling for a nationwide ban on pit bulls as pets.
“We have had countless deaths caused by pit bulls. Now it’s time to act. For years, the breed has been associated with savage attacks resulting in serious injuries and, tragically, fatalities in our communities. Despite precautions, their inherently aggressive nature has led to unforeseen and heartbreaking incidents involving our loved ones,” wrote Tembalami on his verified Facebook page.
He pointed to countries such as the United Kingdom and Canada, where legislation has been enacted to ban or severely restrict pit bull ownership, resulting in fewer dangerous encounters and improved public safety.
“Zimbabwe must take a similar approach to ensure the well-being of its citizens. A nationwide ban on pit bull ownership — both as pets and security dogs — will significantly reduce the risk of attacks. Pet owners can choose other breeds known for their loyalty and gentleness, creating a safer environment for all,” he said.
Tembalami also proposed the introduction of specialised training programmes for current pit bull owners to manage the existing population responsibly until the breed is phased out.
“Implementing these measures is a step toward preventing further tragedies and protecting our communities. Join us in urging the Government of Zimbabwe to legislate and enforce a ban on pit bull ownership. Your signature can help drive legislative change and create safer neighbourhoods for everyone.”
Siqokoqela Mphoko, son of former Vice-President Phelekezela Mphoko, also took to social media to support the call for a total ban on pit bulls.
“I’ve been a dog lover all my life and have owned four different breeds. Many dogs are so loving they become like your children. But pit bulls have never been that. My late father had two of them. He raised them with love, but they were natural killers,” he said.
He recalled how the dogs would bark aggressively at family members and once attempted to attack his young daughter.
“One died of natural causes, and the other had to be put down because it was too aggressive. I remember arriving at my father’s house with my kids. My daughter, who was very young at the time, was nearly attacked by the pit bull. By God’s grace, she managed to close the car door in time.
“These are not dogs — they are natural-born killers. They are fighting dogs, born with a chip in their brain that says ‘kill’ no matter what. They have killed human beings. They kill for sport. They should be banned in Zimbabwe.”
To date, 19 countries have banned pit bulls as domestic pets, including Denmark, France, Germany, Belarus, Belgium, Ecuador, Great Britain, New Zealand, Romania, Australia, Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Israel, Italy, Norway, Poland, Puerto Rico, and Russia.
