THE Bulawayo City Council, in collaboration with the Department of Veterinary Services, has vaccinated over 7 000 dogs in a mass campaign targeting the city’s western suburbs.
This vaccination exercise is in response ro growing concerns over stray and unsecured dogs roaming various neighbourhoods, posing risks of attacks and potential rabies transmission.
According to a recent council report by director of health services Edwin Mzingwane Sibanda, the vaccination drive was accompanied by an extensive public awareness program on responsible dog ownership and rabies prevention.
“A total of 7,108 dogs were vaccinated during the rabies mass vaccination campaign,” the report stated.
“The department also implemented an extensive awareness programme alongside the vaccination exercise, sensitising residents on the legal and public health requirements for responsible dog ownership within the city.”
The report noted positive community engagement, with increased turnout at vaccination points.
The campaign also serves as a precursor to a planned Tie-Up Order scheduled for January 2026, aimed at strengthening dog management and further reducing rabies risk.
In related public health efforts, the council’s cleansing department continues daily street sweeping in the central cusiness district and along major residential roads.
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However, the department faces significant challenges, including heavy littering in areas with illegal vending activity.
During the period under review, 13 clean-up campaigns—including National Clean-Up Day—were conducted across the city by various stakeholders, and 53 health talks were delivered.
Despite these efforts, enforcement remains hampered by transport shortages, with only nine tickets issued for illegal dumping.
The council acknowledged a donation of 50 street litter bins from Altcom Private Limited to enhance city cleanliness.
Refuse collection, however, remains strained.
On average, only four refuse compactors were operational daily, affecting schedules, particularly in eastern areas and the CBD.
“The department appreciated this kind gesture from the community truckers as it prevented the total collapse of the refuse collection system,” the minutes noted.
During committee discussions, councillor Khalazani Ndlovu applauded the hiring of additional refuse compactors from the central government but recommended against renewing contracts for community truckers, citing persistent service challenges.
Councillors highlighted that inconsistent collections by some community truckers have led to increased illegal dumping in high-density areas.
They urged clearer public communication on the types of refuse to be collected and called for greater community engagement.
In response, the department of health services clarified that the newly acquired compactors would alleviate but not eliminate the need for community truckers, due to a continued shortage of council vehicles.
The truckers have since formed a company, and a new contract is imminent, with plans to engage them on service improvements.
The department also reported difficulties in healthcare waste collection, as a dedicated truck is currently grounded, forcing staff to improvise with smaller vehicles.
