The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has revealed that malnutrition is the cause behind the recent deaths of 19 hippopotamuses in the picturesque Mid Zambezi region.
Over the past three months, these unfortunate incidents occurred in the lush Sapi Safari Area and the scenic Chirundu, Mashonaland West Province, prompting thorough investigations by ZimParks.
In a statement released on Thursday, January 9, ZimParks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo shared the preliminary findings, saying there were no gross abnormalities or traces of anthrax in the tested samples from the hippos’ carcasses. He said:
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Following investigations into the deaths of 19 hippos in the Mid Zambezi Region, preliminary results show no gross abnormalities or traces of anthrax in the tested samples.
It is important to note that about 50 percent of the hippo population were in very poor body condition, with prominent pelvic bones and spines, indicating malnutrition or inadequate food supply.
While recent rainfall in the region offers hope for the recovery of the hippo population, our findings strongly indicate that the majority of deaths so far are directly linked to severe nutritional deficits rather than infectious diseases.
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Farawo also noted that the hippos had been travelling up to 10 kilometres from their natural habitat in desperate search of food.
ZimParks assured the public that it is closely monitoring the situation and remains committed to prioritizing the health and welfare of the local wildlife.
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Pindula News

Malnutrition is the reason behind the deaths of 19 hippos in Zimbabwe. The hippos were very hungry and couldn't find enough food to eat, so they died. This happened in the Mid Zambezi region of the country. Researchers found that many of the hippos were in poor body condition and were very thin. They were so hungry that they traveled far away from their home to find food. The government is working hard to make sure the other hippos in the area get enough to eat and stay healthy.

Malnutrition Behind Deaths Of 19 Hippos In Mid Zambezi - ZimParks

Farmers have been challenged to embrace technology to boost yields in the midst of climate change.
Artificial intelligence scientist Panashe Chiurunge said embracing technologies in agronomy will enable farmers to attain high yields even on small pieces of land. He said:
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As population increases outstrip the natural growth of agricultural crops, there is a need to embrace technology because it allows the farmers to produce sufficient quality crops on small pieces of land.
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Chiurunge was speaking at the ongoing international conference on academic excellence for leadership transformation and innovation in Africa at Africa University in Mutare.
Southern Utah University director of International Outreach, and International Affairs, Lambert Pungu Okito said malnutrition is a serious threat to African communities as it reduces the intelligence quotient (IQ) of children at school. Said Okito:
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Most children in Africa go to school without eating. This affects the IQ of the child. Malnutrition is also a threat to adults as it has the potential to reduce the life cycle and immunity.
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In September, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Food and Nutrition Security Committee said around 19 million children under five years are malnourished. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002380/embrace-technology-to-boost-food-security">NewsDay</a>

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