Stiff fines for stray livestock owners

The Hwange Local Board has expressed concern on the ever-increasing number of livestock (cattle, goats and sheep) roaming around suburbs.

In a statement the Hwange Local Board said these stray animals are not only disturbing the peace of residents, but menacingly destroying vegetable gardens at a number of households as well.

The animals are also posing danger to both motorists and pedestrians. 

“To this end, Council wishes to advise livestock owners to effectively control the movement of their animals and guard against them encroaching into residential areas. Failure to, which they risk being penalised for contravening Council’s keeping of animals, reptile and birds by-laws (Statutory Instrument 359 of 1982-general restriction or keeping of animals Part Six section 37)”.

Council is also concerned at the increase of repeat offenders and would like to take this opportunity to warn these individuals that they risk facing more punitive measures,” reads part of the statement.

The local authority continues to face the strain of keeping impounded animals before they are claimed by their owners as owners take long or do not show up to claim the animals.

The Council asserts that “various initiatives are currently being explored to come up with more deterrent measures to curb uncontrolled movement of animals within residential areas.”

Commenting on this issue Fidelis Chima Coordinator at the Greater Hwange Residents Trust said residents welcome the move by council to fine heavily the owners of the livestock as they do not seem to be serious in taking care of their livestock.

“Livestock is destroying gardens at a time when gardens are now a source of livelihood for many,” lamented Chima.

The local board further warned animal owners that;

Hitherto:-

No person shall be permitted to let his/her animals wander or feed in the Council area without the written consent of Council.

Council shall retain the right and power for the seizure of animals which are found trespassing or straying and:-

(a)The sale, destruction or other disposal of such animals if they are not claimed within two weeks.

(b)The destruction of such animals if they are so diseased that they are prejudicial to the health or safety of human beings or other animals.

Fines:Any person or owner whose animals have been impounded shall be liable to the following fines which Council might change from time to time.

Cattle $280.00/Head/Day,Goats/Sheep $280.00/Head/Day and Donkeys $280.00/Head/Day