EMA, LSU tackle deadly Umkhawuzane plant in Matabeleland North

THE Environmental Management Agency (EMA), in partnership with Lupane State University, has launched a community-based research initiative targeting the highly toxic plant Dichapetalum cymosum, locally known as Umkhawuzane, in an effort to curb livestock losses in Matabeleland North Province.

Umkhawuzane is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous poisonous plants in Southern Africa and is estimated to account for about eight percent of livestock deaths linked to toxic flora. The plant contains fluoroacetate, a powerful toxin that causes sudden death in animals and also presents risks of secondary poisoning through the food chain.

EMA Environmental Education and Publicity Manager Ms Amkela Sidange said the joint study was carried out in Ward 18 (Makhovula) in Lupane District and Ward 10 in Umguza District, combining community sensitisation with practical trials of both mechanical and chemical control methods.

During community engagements, farmers reported losing an average of three to four animals per household each winter, a period when Umkhawuzane remains green while most other forage is scarce, increasing the risk of livestock ingestion.

Ms Sidange said mechanical control methods, which involved digging out the plant and excavating its roots to depths of between one and 1,5 metres, yielded encouraging results, with no signs of regeneration observed after removal.

In contrast, chemical control using glyphosate was found to be less effective, as it only temporarily suppressed the plant while also affecting surrounding vegetation, without achieving full eradication.

"The findings highlight the importance of integrated, site-specific management approaches that combine effective mechanical removal, cautious chemical use and continuous community education," Ms Sidange said.

She added that EMA and Lupane State University remain committed to working closely with local communities to protect livestock, improve rangeland management and reduce the economic losses caused by Umkhawuzane.

The initiative underscores EMA's focus on community-driven solutions and interdisciplinary collaboration. By involving farmers directly in the research process, the project not only raises awareness of the dangers posed by the plant but also equips communities with practical and sustainable control strategies.

As Matabeleland North continues to grapple with the ecological and economic impact of Umkhawuzane, the partnership is expected to contribute to more resilient livestock farming systems and better-managed rangelands.

EMA has encouraged farmers and communities to remain vigilant and to report outbreaks of toxic plants promptly in order to safeguard livelihoods and protect local biodiversity.