daniel chigunwe
Tafara Chibanda
OVER 100 cattle are dying every month at Harare City Council’s farm.
The farm has about 3000 cattle.
Suspended Town Clerk Engineer Hosiah Chisango appeared before the Commission of Inquiry yesterday to address concerns surrounding the council’s agricultural operations.
Eng Chisango clarified that the farm is primarily used for wastewater treatment, where cattle are kept as part of an effluent management system.
The inquiry raised concerns over the high mortality rate of the cattle.
With over 100 cattle dying each month, the Commission questioned the lack of accountability and oversight in the management of the livestock.
Eng Chisango confirmed that cattle deaths were being reported to be from natural causes but acknowledged that the Council has not focused on implementing a robust tracking system for the cattle.
Lawyer Thabani Mpofu, who is leading evidence from witnesses appearing before the Commission, said:
“It is clear that you do not have any robust accounting systems for those cattle because you are not concerned because they are not the core business as far as you are concerned.
“It would appear to me that that the range for farming is a looter’s paradise.”
Eng Chisango revealed that the Council’s focus remains on wastewater treatment rather than livestock care.
He denied any direct involvement in looting but acknowledged the potential for irregularities
He also noted that while the Council has enlisted veterinary experts, animal health management has not been given top priority.
“We are looking more at wastewater management.”
He said the Council has security measures in place.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter