SYDNEY MUBAIWA
GWERU- The City of Gweru has issued a 14 -day ultimatum for residents to remove all cattle, donkeys and other animals kept within the municipality as part of efforts to improve sanitation, urban management and enhance public safety.
The directive was confirmed by the local authority’s public relations officer Vimbai Chingwaramusee in a statement.
“The City of Gweru hereby gives Fourteen (14) days public notice to all residents, stakeholders and livestock owners within the municipal boundaries of Gweru particularly those in the Western Suburbs, to remove all stray donkeys, cattle and other livestock currently roaming or residing in undersigned and unpermitted areas.
“This notice serves to protect public safety, preserve sanitation and maintain order within the city boundaries, in line with the Urban Councils Act ,which empower the council to control, impound and dispose of stray animals found within municipal limits.
“All animal owners are directed to remove their donkeys, cattle and other stray animals from within the city boundaries on or before 20 November, 2025,” reads part of the statement.
The local authority has also banned the use of all animal-drawn carts in the city. Authorities warned that, anyone found in violation of the new regulations will face penalties in accordance with municipal by-laws.
“Animal drawn scotch carts and similar vehicles are prohibited within the city boundaries. Any such carts, together with their draught animals, shall be impounded and confined to the Antelope Park Pound and auctioned after the statutory 90 days,” further reads the statement.
The development follows rising complaints from residents about livestock wandering onto roads, causing traffic hazards and damaging public infrastructure.
