The Veterinary Association of Zambia (VAZ) says it is deeply saddened and concerned by the unfortunate incident that led to setting ablaze of the Mumbwa District Veterinary Office on Wednesday 13th September 2023 following reports of alleged ritual killings in the district.
VAZ President Malcolm Chiyoba said the destruction of the entire office building, including valuable equipment, files and documents, is a great loss not only to the veterinary community but to the nation’s efforts in disease control and prevention.
Dr. Chiyoba strongly condemned the violence and riotous behavior that led to this destruction and calling upon relevant authorities to take immediate action to bring those responsible to justice and use this as an opportunity to sensitize communities on their role in safeguarding vital public institutions and the dangers of taking matters into their own hands.
He called upon the government to swiftly reconstruct the Mumbwa District Veterinary Office through funds from the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) or the Constituency Development Fund (CDF.
“The Association remains committed to its mission of promoting animal health, welfare and public health and reaffirm our dedication to the One Health approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health,” he said.
