Stray jumbos wreak havoc

Beitbridge Reporter
April 13, 2010



STRAY elephants from Nottingham Estate have descended on Jalukange Irrigation Scheme in ward eight in Beitbridge West where they are reportedly destroying crops.
The councillor for the area, Luka Ndou, said the elephants, some from neighbouring Botswana, descended on the irrigation scheme last week.
“The elephants left a trail of destruction at Jalukange Irrigation Scheme where they destroyed crops and canals and sadly farmers had to cancel plans to hold a field day,” he said.
The elephants recently wreaked havoc at the neighbouring Shashe Irrigation Scheme before the erection of an electric fence, which was donated by Peace Foundation, a South African non-governmental organisation.
Villagers in Makakavhule also expressed concern over the elephants, which destroyed crops at Ranch Irrigation Scheme.
“We are now appealing to the Parks and Wildlife Management Authority to help the local community by addressing the problem as a matter of urgency,” said Clr Ndou.
Jalukange Irrigation Scheme measuring 57 hectares has a total of 25 farmers.
However, due to a constant breakdown of engine pumps resulting in water shortage, farmers had to reduce the hectarage to 50ha.
Clr Ndou also appealed to transport operators to provide buses to service the area.
Poor road network forced some transport operators to pull out of the route.