By A Correspondent- Farmers and butchery operators in areas around Chipinge South constituency have expressed concern over the sharp increase in cases of livestock theft.

This was revealed at a livestock show which took place last Wednesday at Mabhiza Business Centre under Chipinge district.

The show was organised by the Department of Agriculture, Research and Extension Services (Agritex) in collaboration with a development partner, International Rescue Committee (IRC).

A club that consists of 200 women hosted the show and took the opportunity to exhibit different breeds of goats that are earning huge profits to farmers in the Lowveld.

Speaking on behalf of Checheche Livestock Traders Association, Chisumbanje businessman Mr Gideon Chiororo said the increase in stock theft was affecting livestock trade.

“Stock theft is affecting butchery operators as they lose cattle meant for business,”said Chiororo. We urge farmers to work hand-in-glove with traders so that we can curb stock theft in the area.

“Some of the cattle are smuggled into Mozambique due the porous border and we are appealing to authories to curb this problem.”

Local Agritex officer Miss Medline Ngwendu indicated that water problems in the area contribute immensely to the problem.

“When the water table is low, farmers drive their livestock to Save River which is distant from the villages. On the way, they lose their stock,” said Ngwendu.

Chipinge Rural District Council Ward 24 councillor Wishes Hama called for stern measures to be taken against cattle rustlers.

“As a female councillor, I am humbled by this goat project by women farmers but I am worried that some people craft ways to steal from them. People who steal livestock should receive stiffer penalties,” said Hama.

Speaking at the same occasion, Member of Parliament for Chipinge South Cde Enock Porusingazi urged farmers to have regular checks on potential thieves.-ManicaPost