By Farai Chikore

CHINHOYI- THE Department of Veterinary Services has started cattle inspections, in Makonde District to monitor and detect animal diseases.
The animal health specialists carry out these inspections often but this specific exercise is being done before the rains start.
Makonde Rural District Council vice Chairperson, Councillor Martha Paul, confirmed that the Department of Veterinary Services staff would be conducting the inspections at dip tanks in her area.
“They have started inspections. They are suspicious cases of animal diseases; investigations are still being done. So far, they have advised all the farmers to bring their cattle for inspection, the exercise is being done at dip tanks in our area,” said Councillor Paul.
In February, a Gokwe North farmer, Simukai Zvandasara of Mavimbi dip tank, Chief Chireya area, in Gokwe moved his 12 herd of cattle from his area to Mabhangara in Mashonaland West, in Sanyati District without a movement permit.
Chireya area is a Foot and Mouth (FMD) red zone, which is under quarantine.
Sanyati Police arrested him for contravening the provisions of the Animal Health (Movement of Cattle and Pigs) Regulations, 1984.
The animals were later destroyed and the carcasses burnt under police guard.
The owner of the cattle did not receive any compensation.
The aim was to maintain an FMD-free status in Mashonaland West Province, which has the potential to resume exports.
Exposure to FMD has the potential to destroy the completely provincial cattle herd.