Girl (8) survives jackal attack

An eight-year-old girl from Karoi's K14 suburb is recovering after suffering serious leg injuries in a shocking jackal attack that occurred while she was asleep inside her home.

The incident, which has alarmed residents in the fast-growing suburb, was raised during a full council meeting on Thursday, where concerns were expressed over safety and inadequate street lighting in parts of the town.

Karoi Ward 8 councillor Lloyd Chasara said the attack highlights the dangers facing communities, not only from crime but also from wild animals straying into residential areas.

"We want the solar street lights to be distributed equally and fairly. Every community is under threat. While priority has been given to Chilangwe and Chiedza due to muggings and robberies, we also have areas where people aren't safe from animals," said Clr Chasara.

"Recently, an eight-year-old girl was lucky to be alive after a jackal entered a room she was sleeping in at night. It took the efforts of neighbours to kill the animal."

The attack has intensified calls for improved lighting and enhanced security measures across all wards.

Council has procured 700 solar street lights, which are awaiting installation. However, Ward 9 councillor Muzondiwa Sawanje expressed concern over vandalism, saying previously installed lights had been stolen within days.

"Let's install these lights at houses and give responsibility to homeowners. This is the only way to protect the lights," he said.

Karoi Mayor, Alderman Kudakwashe Chigumo, assured councillors that the 700 solar lights would be distributed across all wards in the town.

Residents say the incident has left many families shaken, particularly as it occurred inside a home at night, raising fears over both human and wildlife threats in the expanding suburb.