Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
SANDISIWE Nkomo’s recent recognition for her exemplary care of donkeys in Gwanda District highlights a growing awareness of the vital role these animals play in rural Zimbabwean life and the need to invest in their well-being.
Nkomo, from Gokole Village, stood out among six participants at a recent World Donkey Day commemoration.
Nkomo’s approach contrasts sharply with the practices of many villagers who neglect their donkeys. She treats them with the same consideration she gives her other livestock, ensuring they are fed and rested during journeys, and training them with patience rather than punishment.
“I take good care of my donkeys and love them dearly because they help me a lot. When I travel with them, I make sure to carry food for them. Just as I stop by the shops to buy food for myself when I’m hungry, I also consider that my donkeys need food and water. I don’t overwork them because I know they get tired too.
“When I see they’ve worked hard, I allow them to rest. Some people believe donkeys are stubborn and only respond to whipping, but I train mine to follow instructions. When it’s time to move, they know to go, and when it’s time to stop, I guide them in a way they understand,” she said.
Elina Maphosa, who came second in the competition, echoes this sentiment.
“I see my donkeys as my friends — they’re always there when I need them. I love donkeys, and their presence is a great help. I’m able to accomplish a lot of work because of them. Some people prioritise other animals and overlook donkeys, but the labour they provide is invaluable,” she said.
She also highlighted their importance in emergencies, such as transporting sick individuals.
The stories of Nkomo and Maphosa illustrate the profound connection between rural Zimbabweans and their donkeys. These animals are not merely a source of labour; they are integral to the social and economic fabric of the community. Their well-being directly impacts the livelihoods and resilience of households, particularly women, who often rely on them the most.
World Donkey Day, 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. The event, organised by Women and Land in Zimbabwe, is part of a programme aimed at educating and raising awareness about the proper care of donkeys, which are often neglected and mistreated.
Gwanda District Development Co-ordinator Ms Nomathemba Ndlovu emphasised the importance of donkey welfare, noting their central role in the community.
“Working donkeys play a central role in our communities, yet their contributions often go unrecognised, with little documentation of their value or welfare. Today, we gather to acknowledge the crucial role donkeys play in building community resilience and driving economic development.
“We are grateful to Women and Land in Zimbabwe for partnering with the Government to promote donkey welfare in Gwanda District, particularly in Wards 19, 17, and 2, as part of the NSD1 Food and Nutrition Security cluster. This programme is vital in empowering donkey owners and users to uphold high standards of welfare,” she said.
By promoting better donkey care, initiatives like the one launched in Gwanda District not only improve the lives of these animals but also empower communities, strengthen their economic stability, and build resilience against hardship. The recognition of donkeys’ value is a crucial step towards sustainable development and social equity in rural Zimbabwe.
