14 cattle die after consuming poisonous plant

Zim Now Writer

A farmer from Siyaphambili Village under Chief Gampu area in Tsholotsho District lost 14 head of cattle after they consumed a poisonous plant, Dichapetalum cymosum, which is known as also known as umkhawuzane locally.

Found mostly in the northern parts of Southern Africa, the small prostrate shrub with a very extensive root system that goes up to 20 metres deep, is found in parts of Matabeleland North and South provinces and parts of Mwenezi District in Masvingo.

If an animal dies after consuming the plant, the poison stays in the animal with the potential of affecting whatever eats the dead animal.

Nine beats died the same day after eating the deadly plant while five died the next day, according to the owner of the cattle, Elmore Ncube.

Matabeleland North provincial Veterinary Officer, Dr Felistas Ndlovu said the diagnosis is based on finding leaves of the plant in the rumen (stomach of the animal) as well as the presence of the plant in the grazing area.

She urged farmers to continuously monitor their animals to prevent them from eating the poisonous plant.

“There are no confirmed treatment measures that have been developed for the treatment of umkhawuzane poisoning. Treatment often consists of helping animals to remain calm and caution should be taken to avoid pastures when the plant sprouts and produces new leaves,” said Dr Ndlovu.

“Removing all known plants from pastures may reduce the risk of exposure. Mechanical methods of removal have proven to be ineffective because of the plant’s extensive root system.”

The veterinary doctor said the total eradication of the plant is difficult, urging farmers to graze their herds in umkkhawuzane-free pastures in order to keep them safe.