By Flata Kavinga
The City of Kwekwe is considering introducing spot fines as a deterrent measure against residents who bring cattle and donkey-drawn scotchcarts into residential areas amid concerns over stray animals damaging household gardens.
The issue was raised by Ward 12 Cllr Thomas Mahapa during a full council meeting, where he expressed concern over an increase in domestic animals becoming a nuisance in the city.
Responding to the matter, Kwekwe mayor Cllr Albert Zinhanga said residents without fenced and gated homes were often affected by animals destroying their vegetable gardens.
“Some people bring cattle or donkey-drawn scotchcarts into residential areas carrying vegetables for sale. The animals end up grazing in people’s gardens. We can introduce spot fines for offenders to address the problem as residents are not happy with the sight of domestic animals in locations,” said Cllr Zinhanga.
Cllr Mahapa said the city had witnessed an increase in the number of cattle and donkeys being brought into residential areas, particularly in some outlying suburbs.
“We now have an influx of cattle and donkeys in the city. The owners who bring them to Mbizo 4 let them loose and they go on to destroy residents’ gardens, especially in outlying suburbs such as Mbizo 9, 10, 16 and 21,” he said.
Cllr Mahapa added that the presence of stray animals on roads was also posing risks to motorists.
“Motorists are also at risk as they encounter donkeys on our roads,” he said.
The council is expected to further deliberate on possible measures to address the issue.
