Campaigns on dog vaccination reach 30 000 people in Bulawayo

Bulawayo City Council's dog‑vaccination awareness campaigns have reached an estimated 30 000 people amid growing concerns that unvaccinated pets may spread rabies in the city.

This is contained in the latest council minutes under the Health Promotion Unit.

Director of Health Services Edwin Mzingwane Sibanda reported that Social and Behaviour Change Communication activities had used multiple communication channels to reach as many residents as possible.

"One radio broadcast infomercial was conducted on Khulumani FM focusing on solid waste management and how it contributes to public health and hygiene," the minutes read.

Health information was also disseminated at Woodville Primary School to learners and teachers following a mumps outbreak. Door‑to‑door campaigns and community announcements were conducted in the ward, with key messages highlighting signs and symptoms of the disease, preventive measures and the need to isolate suspected cases.

Council further reported that community announcements and interpersonal communication on dog vaccination were carried out in Emakhandeni District, covering Emakhandeni, Cowdray Park, Gwabalanda and Luveve. The exercise was conducted in partnership with Albatross Veterinary Surgery.

"An estimated number of 30 000 people were reached with information on keeping dogs," the minutes stated.

Awareness campaigns on cervical and breast cancers were also conducted in the Magwegwe Clinic catchment area, with emphasis on early detection and timely health‑seeking behaviour.

Council added that health information dissemination continues across all healthcare facilities, supported by educational videos screened on television sets in 19 of the city's 25 clinics.