Villagers turn to traditional remedies amidst El Niño-induced drought

Victor Sibanda

As the relentless grip of the El Niño-induced drought tightens its hold in Hwange District, local villagers in Jambezi are increasingly turning to traditional remedies to safeguard their livestock. With the rising cost of veterinary chemicals, many are finding solace in age-old practices handed down through generations.

Residents of Gavu and Nemananga have reported significant losses of cattle due to the harsh conditions. In response, they have embraced traditional strategies such as administering mahogany and mopane tree sap to their animals.

“Veterinary chemicals are simply too expensive,” explained Darlington Tshuma from Village 44. “So, I mix mahogany tree bark with their drinking water to improve their blood health. While I occasionally use chemicals from the veterinary services, my primary reliance is on these herbal remedies. They’ve proven effective, and the entire community is adopting them.”

Owen Banda, a resident of Nemananga Ward, swears by the power of salt. “I believe salt helps deworm our animals and reduces mortality rates. We either mix it with their water or provide it as a lick. It’s a simple yet effective method.”

Some farmers have even resorted to more unconventional techniques. Timothy Ngwenya from Mbizha Ward shared a common practice for treating eye infections: “When a cow develops eye problems, we use a hot iron rod to lightly burn the skin above and below the affected eye. This kills the harmful bacteria.” In Ndebele, he expressed it as, “Nxa inkomo isilomkhuhlane wamehlo, ngisebenzisa udlawu. Lungatshisa lubebomvu, sengiyitshisa ke inkomo phansi laphezulu kwelihlo. Iyasila, lamagcikwane ayafa.”

Clifford Moyo from Dobolo employs a different approach for animals with mobility issues. “We spray hot water on the affected limbs to alleviate muscle problems. It’s a method that has worked for us year after year.”

While these traditional practices offer temporary relief, environmentalist Pride Ncube cautions against complete reliance on them. “If these methods work, then people should use them. However, it’s crucial to consult with veterinary services, as diseases are evolving due to climate change. Modern medicines provide a comprehensive approach to treatment.”

An agricultural specialist who refused to be named highlighted that investing in indeginous knowledge systems is crucial, further highlighting that there is growing interest in ethnoveterinary practices (use of traditional and indigenous knowledge and practices to treat animals) which offer viable alternatives where modern medicine could be unaffordable or unavailable. However, farmers are encouraged to consult veterinary experts for proper guidance.

As the drought persists, it is clear that the delicate balance between tradition and modern veterinary practices will continue to shape the survival of livestock in the region.