By the Vet Department
Msvingo – The Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development, through the Directorate of Veterinary Services in Masvingo Province, has officially launched the Government-sponsored National Anthrax Vaccination Campaign, targeting anthrax hotspot districts including Chiredzi, Zaka, Gutu, Chivi and Masvingo.
Speaking during the launch, Masvingo Provincial Veterinary Director, Dr Kramer Manyetu, expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness for the rollout of the programme. He urged livestock farmers to take full advantage of the campaign by bringing their cattle for vaccination in large numbers.
“Anthrax remains a highly fatal disease affecting both livestock and humans. Vaccination is the most effective way of protecting our national herd and safeguarding public health,” said Dr Manyetu.
The campaign aims to vaccinate 130,000 cattle in Masvingo Province, contributing towards the national target of one million cattle to be vaccinated against anthrax across the country.
Anthrax remains a significant threat within the province. Earlier this year, human anthrax cases were reported in Mwenezi District, prompting an emergency response that resulted in the vaccination of 9,824 cattle in affected areas. The incident highlighted the continued risk posed by the disease and the importance of preventive vaccination.
The Chief Director of Veterinary Services, Dr Makaya, commended the progress being made under the national vaccination programme and highlighted the Government’s commitment to protecting livestock health through sustained disease control interventions.
Dr Makaya assured farmers that Government has adequate stocks of anthrax vaccine to cover all susceptible cattle populations nationwide. He encouraged farmers to cooperate with veterinary personnel and ensure that all eligible animals are vaccinated.
He further urged communities to promptly report any suspicious livestock deaths or disease outbreaks to the nearest veterinary office for immediate investigation and response.
“As anthrax is a zoonotic disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans, members of the public are strongly advised not to consume meat from animals that die suddenly or from unknown sources,” he said.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development continues to make significant strides in strengthening animal health systems through nationwide vaccination campaigns, disease surveillance and farmer awareness programmes. These interventions are critical in protecting livestock, enhancing food security, safeguarding public health and supporting the growth and resilience of Zimbabwe’s livestock sector.