Harare City Council implicated in cattle looting scandal

The Harare City Council has been embroiled in a cattle looting scandal, with allegations surfacing that approximately 100 cattle are being illicitly removed from the city's paddocks each month.

This revelation came to light on Thursday during public hearings led by a commission investigating council affairs, where suspended town clerk Engineer Hosiah Chisango appeared to testify.

Mr. Thabani Mpofu, who is leading evidence collection, questioned Eng. Chisango about reports indicating that out of the 3,000 cattle on one of the council's farms, over 100 are reported to die monthly under suspicious circumstances.

"The information we received is that these 100 cattle are allegedly being looted. To account for them, the council reports that they died of natural causes," Mr. Mpofu stated.

In his response, Eng. Chisango clarified that the farm in question is primarily a sewage treatment and effluent management facility, not a dedicated cattle ranching operation. He explained that cattle were introduced as part of a project to explore potential business opportunities and utilize the land effectively.

"I have not reviewed the report, but my understanding is that the council's focus is on wastewater management. That is why we proposed bringing in experts to manage the cattle properly," Eng. Chisango said.

However, he acknowledged that the council lacks a robust system to account for the livestock, as their primary focus remains on wastewater management.

Mr. Mpofu alleged that the farm has become a "looting paradise" for city officials, further fueling concerns about mismanagement and corruption within the council.

The scandal has raised serious questions about accountability and oversight in council operations. Observers are calling for a comprehensive investigation to uncover the truth and ensure those responsible are held accountable.