Diary of a Veterinarian

03/09/2024

THE IMPACT OF ELECTRICITY LOAD SHEDDING ON VACCINE STORAGE AND DISEASE OUTBREAKS IN POULTRY AND BOVINE PRODUCTION IN ZAMBIA

Electricity load shedding in Zambia poses significant challenges to the agricultural sector, particularly in poultry and bovine production systems. One of the most critical impacts is vaccine storage, which requires consistent refrigeration to maintain efficacy. Frequent power interruptions can lead to vaccine degradation, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks among livestock.
Impact on Vaccine Storage

Vaccines for poultry and cattle must be stored within a strict temperature range, typically between 2°C and 8°C, to remain effective. Load shedding disrupts refrigeration systems, causing temperatures to rise and potentially compromising the vaccines. Even with backup systems like generators, delays or inefficiencies in deployment can result in prolonged exposure to unsuitable temperatures, leading to vaccine failure.

When vaccines lose their potency due to improper storage, they may not provide adequate protection against diseases such as Newcastle disease in poultry or foot-and-mouth disease in cattle. This failure can result in widespread vulnerability within herds or flocks, increasing the likelihood of disease outbreaks. In Zambia, where vaccination coverage may already be limited in rural areas, the consequences of vaccine failure are particularly severe, threatening the livelihoods of farmers and the broader agricultural economy.

The failure of vaccines due to load shedding can lead to the resurgence of diseases that were previously under control. In poultry, an outbreak of a disease like Newcastle disease can decimate entire flocks, while in cattle, diseases like anthrax or brucellosis can spread rapidly, with devastating effects on production. These outbreaks not only impact animal health but can also affect food security and trade.

To address these challenges, it is essential to invest in reliable backup power systems for vaccine storage facilities on farms and in distribution centers. Solar power and other alternative energy sources can provide more stable solutions. Additionally, farmers should implement contingency plans that include regular monitoring of vaccine storage temperatures and quick response strategies during power outages. Effective communication and training on vaccine management can also help mitigate the risks.

Electricity load shedding in Zambia poses a significant threat to the efficacy of vaccines in poultry and bovine production systems. Without proper storage, vaccines may fail, leading to disease outbreaks that can have severe consequences for livestock, farmers, and the economy. Addressing these challenges through improved infrastructure, reliable backup systems, and vigilant monitoring is crucial to maintaining the health and productivity of Zambia's agricultural sector.

Dr Ndashe.

28/08/2024

Pragmatic.

Namibia is culling (killing) 723 wild animals to feed people as it faces the worst drought in a century.

They're from areas with "sustainable game numbers" where "the population exceeds the available grazing and water resources" to avoid human-wildlife conflict

22/08/2024

What is Aflatoxicosis? Why are the cases pronounced now? Could the current drought contribute to the high numbers? Why are dogs seemingly the most affected of the livestock and pets?!!

Aflatoxicosis is a fungal toxicosis that may affect all species of animals, Including poultry, Pigs, dogs, cattle and goats and man. The fungus grows on carbohydrate-rich feeds such as peanuts, cottonseed, maize, and other cereal grains when they are stored in hot conditions without adequate drying and aeration. Peanuts and corn can be contaminated before harvest, when drought leads to premature drying of the developing seeds, Zambia right now is experiencing a severe drought. There toxic effects have been known to cause cancer, immunosuppression, and damage to the liver.
Signs and Symptoms of Aflatoxicosis include vomiting, depression, bleeding, weight loss, unthriftness, abortion, convulsions prior to death, a**l prolapse.

Dogs have a low tolerance of Aflatoxins amongst the livestock and pets, explains why dogs in Zambia have been highly affected.

Control and Prevention
There are no known specific antidotes for aflatoxicosis however, pet owners and farmers must pay attention to weather patterns, drought and hot weather prelude increased cases of aflatoxicosis, manage insect infestation, avoid feeding animals feed with molds, proper feed storage avoiding high moisture areas, feed storage areas must have adequate ventilation and preferably feed bags stacked on pallets and away from floors and walls to promote ventilation and manage moisture from the floor. Farmers are encouraged to conduct frequent Aflatoxin lab a**lysis especially for feed stored for more than a month.

18/08/2024

Ichola we Tata... Ichola!!!

21/07/2024

Job Title: Poultry and Piggery Manager

Location: Silverest area (on-site accommodation provided)

Job Type: Management position

About Us:

Muntuumo Farms is a leading agricultural company seeking an experienced Poultry and Piggery Manager to join our team. As a senior management position, the successful candidate will be responsible for leading our robust team, overseeing daily operations, and ensuring the farm runs profitably and meets projected financial targets.

Responsibilities:

- Demonstrate commitment to Muntuumo's vision, mission, and values
- Forward planning to ensure orders can be met, including staffing and equipment management
- Budgeting and maintaining accurate records
- Organizing sales and purchases of livestock, farm equipment, crops, and agricultural products
- Hands-on tasks such as feeding sessions
- Recruiting, training, and supervising farm workers
- Ensuring work is done efficiently, safely, and meets targets and orders
- Ensuring compliance with government regulations and health and safety standards
- Keeping up-to-date knowledge of pests and diseases
- Responding to farm emergencies and solving problems effectively
- Ensuring the farm runs profitably and meets projected financial targets
- Organizing maintenance/repair of farm property, equipment, and machinery
- Performing physical exams, surgeries, and sedation or general anesthesia of collection animals
- Working effectively with pen attendants, line supervisors, and other teams
- Supporting the development of an accessible and organized records system
- Participating in daily planning meetings, weekly Husbandry meetings, and monthly meetings
- Providing timely communications and reports to husbandry and Directors

Non-Technical Responsibilities:

- Managing activities to ensure good communication and responsible management of resources
- Strategic planning and financial management
- Implementing goals and objectives
- Representing the Farm in professional associations and other related endeavors
- Performing other duties as assigned

Requirements:

- Certificate in Animal Health Management and/or General Agriculture
- Proven experience in poultry and piggery management
- Strong leadership and communication skills
- Willingness to work unusual hours and live on-site in the Silverest area
- Ability to work hands-on and lead a team
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Ability to meet deadlines and targets
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment

If you are a motivated and experienced individual looking for a challenging and rewarding role, please submit your application, including your resume and cover letter, to [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you! Deadline for application: 24th July, 2024.

21/07/2024

Internship Opportunities at Muntuumo Farms Ltd

Procurement and Accounts Office Interns Wanted!

Muntuumo Farms Ltd, a fast-paced farm located in the Silverest area, is seeking dedicated interns to join our team! As a livestock production and agriculture farm, we are looking for individuals who are eager to start their careers in procurement and accounting.

Responsibilities:

- Assist with procurement processes, including purchasing and inventory management
- Help with accounts office tasks, such as data entry and financial record-keeping
- Learn and assist with budgeting, forecasting, and financial a**lysis
- Collaborate with our team to ensure efficient and effective operations

Requirements:

- Currently pursuing or recently graduated with a degree in Procurement, Accounting, or related field
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize tasks
- Willingness to learn and take on new challenges

What We Offer:

- Hands-on experience in procurement and accounting
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals
- Opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects
- A dynamic and supportive work environment

How to Apply:

If you are a motivated and dedicated individual looking to kickstart your career, please submit your application, including your resume and cover letter, to [email protected] . We look forward to hearing from you!

Deadline for Application: 24th July, 2024.

15/07/2024

Exciting News! We've been selected for the Startupper of the Year Challenge by TotalEnergies! I need your support to take our project to the next level. Please click the link https://startupper.totalenergies.com/en/juries/vMNw7tSF4nv0_6SOg6n2sA/participations/15246/vote and hit the 'Like' button to show your love. Your support means everything to us! Let's make this happen together! "

The Startupper Challenge of the year by TotalEnergies is back in 32 African countries for a special edition celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Company!

25/05/2024

Two remarkable women dedicated their lives to the well-being of the country's precious wildlife.

As news of their success spread, so did their reputation as champions of wildlife. Dr. Mwendalubi and Dr. Chadzaantso became symbols of hope and resilience, inspiring a new generation of veterinarians to join the fight for conservation.

Dr. Mwendalubi, a seasoned veterinarian with years of wildlife experience. Her passion for conservation burned brightly, driving her to protect not only the animals under her care but also the delicate ecosystems they called home.

Meanwhile, Dr. Chadzaantso, a dynamic and determined soul, With unwavering commitment, she patrolled the vast expanses of wilderness, ensuring the health and safety of every creature within her domain.

Their journey has not been without its challenges, they remain steadfast in their mission to protect Zambia's wildlife and wildlife spaces. Together, they have embarked on a race against time to rescue, rehabilitate and treat wildlife.

26/04/2024

I would like to extend my gratitude to all the practitioners who participated in the electoral process. You took time to participate in this eminent process that shapes the future of the process.

To my team, my supporters, though we may have faced a setback in the recent election for the Veterinary Association of Zambia, let's remember that our commitment and passion for our profession remain unwavering.

This journey has only strengthened our resolve to serve our community and advocate for our field. Let's take this as a learning experience, regroup, and continue working together towards our shared goals. Thank you all for your dedication and support.

The vote is a resounding show of Faith in Lt Col Dr Ngwisha, who I believe with his experience will lead faithfully and I wish him GodSpeed. We continue to uphold the spirit of unity and professionalism by extending our full support to the newly elected leaders.

Together, let's collaborate and contribute positively to the growth and advancement of our veterinary community. Congratulations to the winners, and let's work hand in hand for the betterment of our profession.
VAZ and its Growth should be and is our Concern.

Best Regards,

Darlington alias Buffalo Chaser.

26/04/2024

Congratulations to Dr Ndashe for being awarded the VAZ Award for his exceptional contributions and achievements in the Aquatic Health Space in Zambia through practice & research. Being nominated in this category alongside mentors like Dr Jackson and Dr Ndashe is truly an honor. I extend my congratulations to all other deserving candidates who were nominated and awarded for their efforts in bettering the Zambian Veterinary Space.
Thank you to VAZ for hosting such a colorful and momentous AGM that was graced by HE Hakinde Hichilema, the President of the Republic of Zambia.

24/04/2024

Collegiality.

24/04/2024

President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA says there is a need to constitute a small team of experts to help stir the livestock sector to great heights.

Mr. HICHILEMA says if well organized, the livestock sector can bring in revenue of about one Billion United States Dollars per year from exports.

The President says cabinet has already agreed to set up Livestock Economic Zones to effectively boost the livestock sector and manage livestock diseases.

The Head of State was speaking when he officially opened the Veterinary Association of Zambia Scientific Conference in Livingstone today.

He said there is need to place value and respect to veterinary Doctors the same way as it is with medical doctors adding that government is ready to employ the necessary number of staff in the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock.

Veterinary Association of Zambia President MALCOM CHIYOBA appealed to the government to allow feed making companies to import yellow maize as animal feed.

Meanwhile, Fisheries and Livestock Minister, MAKOZO CHIKOTE, said his ministry and the Ministry of Agriculture have already put in place measures that will allow farmers to import yellow maize as feed for their livestock.

Mr. CHIKOTE has urged livestock farmers not to panic over animal feed.

And Southern Province Minister, CREDO NANJUWA, said the province has started early vaccination of animals to reduce outbreaks of animal diseases.

Mr. NANJUWA says the province has110,000 anthrax vaccines for cattle, sheep and goats with a target to vaccinate nine-hundred-and-ten thousand cattle.

The Veterinary Association of Zambia has conferred Mr. HICHILEMA with a Lifetime Honorary Membership.

24/04/2024

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/xMpCFj6mArnmb8CQ/?mibextid=xfxF2i

23/04/2024

Our determinination in resolving Public health threats that concern Our Republic such as Rabies is iron clad! Zambia has pledged to have This calls for increased stakeholder participation and creative ways of managing problems. This was a Mass Spay & Nueter Campaign in Chiwempala Chingola, That was coordinated by Private Practitioners on the Copperbelt and an NGO Dziko project! With the UNZA & UNZAVETSA, we were lucky the primaryschool in Chingola and Kitwe afforded us the premises as we were able to operate efficiently, with classes being converted into Observation rooms, Surgical rooms and recovery rooms! A perfect example of tapping from the Resource within VAZ and also collaborating with like minded ipartners! Vote pali Darlington for VEEP for enhanced collaboration and tapping from within the resource of our professionals!
Happy to note that some of the community volunteers where inspired enough to become Vet Studnet’s at UNZA

21/04/2024

Our Forefathers dreamed of this when they coined the One Zambian One Nation national motto. Long live the realization.

18/04/2024

Modernize VAZ!
Bring VAZ Operations to the 21st Century!
Protect the Zambian Veterinary space from Alien illegal practicioners.
Let’s get VAZ out on the corporate market collaborating in win-win engagements with stakeholders by tapping from the resource of its members! This is not just a fresh blood Vote! This is a vote everyone with a desire to bring a corporate touch to VAZ Affairs!
Vote pali Darlington Kafula alias Buffalo Chaser! As the VAZ VEEP!

14/04/2024

Our opponents have resorted to unethical Shenanigans to de campaign our collective resolve of VAZ to protect our Vet Space against Alien Illegal practicioners, Shifting VAZ organization and operations to the 21st Century through increased online footprint! Which will result in increased membership participation and revenue and easy administration of online CPDs, in the spirit of Collegiality as our Late Prof A.S Mweene we urge our Colleagues to do better! We have also written formally to VAZ Electoral Commission to seek redress.
Vote for Dr Kafula Darlington alias Buffalo Chaser as VAZ Vice President.

13/04/2024

Total pa Total! 🙌🏾 6/6!
The New Wave is here!

As a Vice Presidential Candidate I DARLINGTON alias Buffalo Chaser,
Endorse the candidature of the following vibrant, determined, trailblazers, hardworking Practitioners who have turned fortunes around in their areas of practice & career paths:

- DR KATAMPI - MUTALE CATHERINE, ASPIRING SECRETARY GENERAL.
- DR CHAMPO WESLEY, ASPIRING COMMONWEALTH ASSOCIATION COUNCILLOR.
- ⁠DR SINGOLE ARNOLD PRIVATE VET REPRESENTATIVE.
- DR NAMENDA YENESHA, ASPIRING PUBLICITY SECRETARY.
- DR SAKAJILA GIVEN, ASPIRING COMMITTEE MEMBER.

11/04/2024

Good morning to you distinguished Veterinary personnel,

With just 12 days to go to the AGM,
Allow me to further highlight other focus area my Vice Presidency will undertake:
- show a steadfast commitment to upholding the welfare and integrity of the Zambian Profession by lobbying for licensure exams for alien Practitioners intending to practice on the Zambian Vet space.
- ⁠Work closely with the VCZ and other line authorities in actively seeking out & bringing to book Illegal Alien and local practicioners as a form of deterrence, this will help foster and enshrine accountability, professionalism and integrity among Veterinary personnel and help build public confidence into Vet operations.
- ⁠I will dedicate myself to advancing the interests of the Profession through close collaboration with aligned organizations such as ZAMRA, ZNPHI, in furthering the welfare & employment opportunities of our Professionals and of course facilitate engagements with Vet personnel from such institutions.

I am requesting for the support and votes of the association members, pledging to collaborate in striving for excellence and effecting positive, progressive changes within our esteemed Association.

Again!, Thank you for trusting and having confidence in me.
Vote pali Buffalo Chaser for Team and Mission first!
Let’s build a Bold, Robust and Vibrant Association.

Darlington.

09/04/2024

Hi Mayo, Bana Kafula,
As you may know, I am contesting for this years Elective VAZ AGM as the Vice President.
You must know that all the Campaign points and points in my Manifesto have been inspired by you, by your way of life!
Right from the time when HIV/AIDS ravaged Zambia and claimed premature lives, you were there, with nursing knowledge organized other women in our community, Namulundu village in Ksm to establish Home Based Care units (HBCs) I was a novice then, and as I grew up to understand your roles threw your participation kuma NGOCC, This element of Leadership and effective critical ways of engaging stakeholders was being inculcated into me, by then you only brought us “Wembley” balls to play with and yet, you where showing me the ways of the world!
Here I am in any Leadership position I find myself in,
I just want to share resources, in a just and sustainable manner, in retrospect you are the mastermind!
All that I am, and All that I will ever be, I owe it to what you guys planted in me!
I Love You Mayo,
RIP MUDALA BASHIKAFULA.
Kangwa.
Kasuli wamapondo.

09/04/2024

09/04/2024

Kale Kale! Vote pali Buffalo Chaser as Vice President of the Veterinary Association of Zambia.
At the upcoming VAZ AGM.

04/04/2024

Kale Kale! Vote pali Buffalo Chaser as Vice President of the Veterinary Association of Zambia.
At the upcoming VAZ AGM.