Nathi Masuku
RESIDENTS of Kamativi Mine have called for assistance to deal with crocodiles at Kamativi dam that have killed nine fisherman and left some without limbs.
The dam, which residents call as “DRC” is a source of livelihood as it has provided for a thriving fishing business.
But, not all fishing expeditions have ended well since last December’s bountiful rains.
Residents say the number of crocodiles that inhabit the water source has increased.
As many fishmongers, some coming from as far as Victoria Falls and Bulawayo were mauled by the reptiles.
The fish business has been the prime source of income for most families, since the Kamativi Tin Mine folded in 1994.
Kamativi Ward 11 councillor Jacob Nyoni said the number of crocodiles has made life difficult for families.
“We get water and fish from this dam. When a fisherman goes to the Dam, there are high chances they will not be back. Since December up now, nine people were killed. They never came back. It is our life, but we live in fear of death as we seek to survive,” said Nyoni.
“We call for assistance from those who can help us control the crocodiles. The dam attracts a lot of people as it remains the only source of sustenance for families. We really need to address this, before we count as many people being killed.
“Even government officials here and the police know of the situation at hand. All we want is to control these crocodiles.”
Nyoni said efforts by the community to bring the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority have hit a wall.
“We tried in vain to contact the parks rangers but only to be told to report to Harare. Time and again Parks and Wildlife officials were told of this.”
He said the advent of crocs in the Dam was a result of brutal mine managers who at the time thought the reptiles will chase away fisherman. The Dam was constructed to make available water to the mine’s operations and employees.
ZimParks spokesperson, Tinashe Farawo was not available for comment when called by The Zambezi Times.
Simon Chipaya a former driver at Kamativi Mine said proceeds from his fishing business have reduced and fears he would not yield much fish.
“Since 1998 I have been fishing at this Dam but never encountered any danger. It now that these crocodiles have multiplied, our future as fisherman in this place is ruined.”
