Chronicle EditorLuthando Mapepa Chipinge Correspondent
Villagers in parts of Chipinge are living in fear as marauding wild dogs straying from the Save Conservancy are preying on their livestock. The most affected area is Chipinge communal lands’ Ward 20 under Chief Musikavanhu, where over 20 goats and six donkeys were reportedly killed by the dogs last week. Villagers interviewed by The Herald said they were desperate, as the wild dogs were also attacking people.
They fear the wild dogs might spread diseases such as rabies.
Councillor for Ward 20, Charles Mugidho, confirmed the invasion by wild dogs and appealed to the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority of Zimbabwe to help drive them away.
“I can confirm the invasion by stray wild dogs from Save Conservancy in Ward 20, especially in Chibuwe and Masimbe areas,” he said. “The wild dogs are causing sleepless nights as they are attacking villagers’ livestock.
“The dogs usually visit at night and target mainly goats. So far, I can say we have received reports of over 20 goats and six donkeys that were killed last week. We fear that if no action is taken, the dogs may eventually kill human beings.
“We engaged the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority and they promised to come and help us once they mobilised the necessary resources. We have also organised some meetings with villagers to raise awareness on the menacing wild dogs.
“We are also appealing to the authorities at Save Conservancy to immediately repair the perimeter fence which was vandalised years back. Wild animals have caused untold suffering to the people.”
Chipinge District Administrator, Mr William Mashava, said he was yet to receive reports of the problematic wild dogs.
Online Reporter