adminChipo Katsidzira Manicaland Correspondent
SPIRALLING cases of cattle rustling in Chipinge have sent shock waves across the district, with farmers urging tight policing to end the scourge.
Some parts of Chipinge are very arid and the animals are stolen as they search for water sources and pastures.
Chipinge Rural District Ward 24 Councillor Mrs Wishes Hama told The Herald that stock theft was threatening the growth of the national herd.
“Stock theft is affecting butchery operators as farmers are losing cattle meant for business,” she said.
“We urge farmers to work hand-in-glove with traders so that we help curb stock theft in this area.”
Mrs Hama said water shortages aided stock theft in the area.
“The water table is now low and farmers have to drive their livestock to Save River, which is far away from the villages. On the way they lose their stock,” she said.
Mrs Hama commended women in the area for embarking on a goat project, but lamented the theft of the livestock. “I am pleased by this goat project which is being undertaken by female farmers, but l am very saddened that there are people who are stealing from them,” she said. “Anyone who is going to be caught stealing livestock is going to be punished brutally.”
Online Reporter