Harare (New Ziana) – Government on Tuesday dismissed reports that some abattoirs and butcheries are putting the lives of people at risk by selling contaminated beef from cattle dying across the country due to different diseases.
Addressing the sixth post- Cabinet media briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said government investigations had shown that meat which satisfied health standards was being sold in butcheries.
“Regarding the reported slaughter and sale of contaminated cattle, the Minister advised that as per procedure, the Veterinary Services Department supervises the slaughter of all livestock, while the distribution is supervised by the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
“However, the reports are being investigated and members of the public are urged to report to relevant authorities,” she said.
She however said 126 000 of the targeted 400 000 cattle had been vaccinated against anthrax in high risk areas while 155 000 beasts had also been vaccinated against foot and mouth disease.
Responding to questions, Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement Minister Perrence Shiri confirmed that cattle were dying from anthrax, foot and mouth and theleriosis.
He however dismissed reports of sale of contaminated meat.
“We have two to three extension officers working in every ward but no report has been received from Mhondoro on that. So that cast doubts on authenticity and reliability of those reports.
“No cattle from disease affected areas should be sold for slaughter as a control measure. Together with the Ministry of Health we have formed joint teams to inspect all meat in shops and butcheries.
“So far nothing has been discovered which supports those allegations,” he said.
New Ziana