FAITH NDOU
CHIREDZI-A massive livestock vaccination campaign is underway in Chiredzi where Veterinary Department are targeting 140,000 cattle in a bid to contain anthrax outbreaks in high-risk border communities.
The exercise is being carried out across all dip tanks bordering the Save Valley Conservancy, an area identified as vulnerable due to frequent interaction between wildlife and livestock.
The initiative also follows previous anthrax cases reported near Gonarezhou National Park more than a year ago, prompting renewed surveillance and preventive action across Masvingo Province.
VET said the province has secured adequate vaccine supplies to cover all hotspot areas, particularly those with a history of anthrax outbreaks over the past decade.
Farmers in Nyangambe and surrounding areas have been urged to present their cattle for vaccination to ensure full protection and prevent possible losses.
Speaking to The Midweek Watch, Masvingo Provincial Veterinary Director, Dr Kramner Manyetu said the campaign is part of ongoing efforts to safeguard livestock health in the region.
“We are currently conducting anthrax vaccinations in Chiredzi, particularly in the Nyangambe area,” said Dr. Manyetu.
“All dip tanks along the border with the conservation areas including Save Valley Conservancy are being covered. This follows similar vaccinations near Gonarezhou where an anthrax outbreak was recorded more than a year ago. The province is targeting 140,000 cattle and we have adequate vaccine to cover all hotspots where anthrax has occurred in the past 10 years.”
He added that farmer participation remains key to the success of the programme.
“Farmers are being encouraged to bring their cattle for this important vaccination so that they are adequately protected,” he said.
The campaign is expected to significantly reduce the risk of anthrax spread in livestock-reliant communities while strengthening disease control measures in wildlife-adjacent farming areas.
