CATTLE deaths due to the effects of drought in the Matabeleland region have reached catastrophic levels with 21 400 deaths having been recorded as of last week, amid reports that farmers are struggling to source supplementary feeding and reliable water sources for their animals.

Though the number of livestock poverty deaths, especially cattle, is being felt countrywide due to depleted grazing and diminishing water sources, it is mostly felt in the Matabeleland region where the climate conditions and soils do not favour cropping but tend to go so well with animal husbandry.

Official statistics obtained by Sunday News reveal that over 21 000 cattle have succumbed to drought to date though the figure surpasses that as the death of some of the animals has not been reported.

A survey by Sunday News in parts of Matabeleland revealed that drought had taken its toll, with domestic animals dying on daily basis.

“The situation is bad as you can see. Cattle are dying everyday and the rains that came a few weeks ago have not helped the situation at all,” said Mr Ackim Ndlovu from Mbondweni in Filabusi.

Figures obtained by this paper from Government departments reveal that 21 400 cattle have succumbed to drought with 15 180 being from Matabeleland South Province, while 6 220 deaths were recorded in Matabeleland North. Beitbridge District has been the hardest hit area in the region with almost 4 000 cattle reported to have died with one farmer losing over 150 animals.

Gwanda District has recorded 2 568 deaths, Mangwe (1 433), Matobo (1 734), Bulilima (2 695), Insiza (2 367) and Umzingwane (390).

Matabeleland South has an estimated cattle population of slightly above 600 000.

Matabeleland South provincial livestock officer, Mr Zondani Muchemwa said if urgent intervention was not taken the situation might turn out to be very catastrophic.-State media