Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Online Reporter
THREE mobile donkey clinics are set to be established in Gwanda District, Matabeleland South Province, by AWARE SPANA Zimbabwe in a bid to improve the care of donkeys.
AWARE SPANA is a collaborative project between AWARE Trust, a veterinary conservation trust in Zimbabwe, and SPANA (Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad). The partnership focuses on improving the health and welfare of working animals, primarily donkeys, in rural Zimbabwe.
The mobile clinics will be located at Takaliyawa on 5 August, Manama on 6 August, and Nhwali on 7 August.
In a letter dated 22 July 2025 addressed to Gwanda South Constituency legislator Dr Omphile Marupi, who is also the Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, AWARE SPANA Zimbabwe Country Director Dr Keith Dutlow said the mobile clinics form part of their free veterinary care programme, which provides essential treatment and support to working donkeys in rural communities.
“On behalf of AWARE SPANA Zimbabwe, I wish to sincerely thank you for your demonstrated passion and commitment to the welfare of donkeys in your community. Your interest and proactive stance, particularly in your capacity as Deputy Minister as well as the Member of Parliament for Gwanda South, are truly encouraging and align closely with our mission to promote the humane treatment and well-being of working animals.
“We are pleased to acknowledge your proposal regarding the initiation of mobile donkey clinics and wish to express AWARE SPANA Zimbabwe’s readiness to support this noble initiative.
“While our calendar is currently quite tight with existing programmatic commitments, we have made provision for these important clinics. This effort will address donkey welfare and strengthen owners’ ability to care for their animals. Our team looks forward to working closely with your office and other stakeholders to ensure the successful rollout of these clinics,” reads part of the letter.
Dr Marupi said donkeys should be treated with the same consideration as other livestock.
“Having grown up using donkeys for draught power and other home chores, I felt the donkeys needed similar attention and care given to cattle and goats, hence the donkey clinic.
“Due to the harsh drought, donkeys have always survived, though with some drought-related remnants such as diseases,” said Dr Marupi.
Gwanda District has of late given much attention to educating and raising awareness on the proper care of donkeys, which are often neglected and abused.
In May, the district held the World Donkey Day commemorations, a day which seeks to enhance the welfare of donkeys. The day, which was held under the theme “Donkeys serving as the shoulders, legs, arms and backs of women in rural Zimbabwe”, took place at Manama Business Centre in Ward 17.
