A strange disease unknown to farmers and veterinary authorities in Manica province killed more than 900 head of cattle last December in the districts of Manica, Sussundenga and Báruè, writes "Notícias". 

Breeders are worried and expect an urgent response from the investigation and the veterinary authorities to prevent further losses.

Fernando Cupenha, a farmer from the village of Manhene, in the district of Manica, one of the regions most affected by the outbreak, regrets the situation and asks the veterinary authorities for speed in diagnosing the disease so that an antidote can be found.

He said that this is mainly characterized by the animals' lack of appetite and loss of strength, which is contributing to a reduction in the cattle herd and could compromise food security, since they are losing the means to plough the fields.

"Cattle are a source of wealth for families in the province, because it is through them that the land is tilled, people and goods are transported, and they are also traded, when necessary, to meet needs," he said.

Luís Sabonete, from Messica, said that technicians from the Provincial Livestock and Economic Activities Service (SPPAE) had taken blood samples from the sick animals for laboratory analysis, but there was still no "feedback". (Source: News)