Tinotenda Hove – Hon Vengai Chivaura, a philanthropist and community leader from Mhondoro–Mubaira Constituency, has warned about the deadly dangers of cyanide following a series of livestock deaths linked to mining activities.

“Cyanide is highly lethal, whether inhaled as a gas, ingested in solid form, or absorbed through topical exposure,” Chivaura said at the weekend. “Imagine what this cyanide could do to human beings and livestock if discharged carelessly.”

His remarks come after seven cattle died at Mgagao Farm in Shamva after drinking water contaminated with cyanide that spilled from a nearby mine following heavy rains on Wednesday.

The incident has once again raised serious concerns about mining safety standards and environmental compliance.

Zimbabwe has recorded several similar tragedies over the years:
January 2024 (Mhangura): Twenty-three cattle died instantly in Rixton Village after drinking from a stream near a gold ore leaching plant.

December 2016 (Kadoma & Mutasa): More than 20 cattle died in Mashonaland West after cyanide-contaminated wastewater overflowed from Eiffel Gold Mine in Kadoma during heavy rains.

In a separate case, 14 cattle died in Mutasa district from suspected cyanide poisoning.

2013–2015 (Hwange/Matabeleland): While cyanide poisoning during this period was widely associated with the killing of over 300 elephants in Hwange National Park, livestock in surrounding communities were also affected by the illegal use of the chemical.

Chivaura called for stricter monitoring of mining operations, tougher penalties for environmental violations, and greater protection for communities whose livelihoods continue to be threatened by toxic spills.