By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
The much-anticipated Nyaminyami Festival, originally set for November 30 at the Lake Harvest Sports Club, has been canceled amid rising concerns over a cholera outbreak in Kariba’s Gache-Gache area.
The festival, a flagship event by Chinhoyi-based Platinum FM (formerly Nyaminyami FM), typically draws attendees from across the nation.
Kariba District Medical Officer, Dr Godwin Muza, stressed the urgency of the health crisis. “In light of the cholera outbreak, we have consulted with provincial health authorities and decided to suspend all large gatherings until the situation normalizes. The health and safety of our community must come first,” he said.
Residents and visitors are being urged to adhere strictly to health guidelines to prevent the spread of the disease, which has already claimed one life and resulted in 97 suspected cases as of yesterday. Among these, five cases involve primary schoolchildren in the affected area.
Adding to the disruptions, the Kariba Health and Wellness Tournament, initially scheduled for November 27-30, has also been postponed.
Kariba District Development Coordinator and Civil Protection Unit Chairperson, Desmond Anele Gumbochumba, explained, “The health and safety of participants, organizers, and the community at large are our top priorities. We believe postponing the event is in everyone’s best interest.” He added that plans are underway to reschedule the tournament for early next year.
Meanwhile, efforts to combat the outbreak are ramping up. A cholera vaccination campaign has been launched in Ward 2 of Nyaminyami Rural District Council, with nearly 3,000 residents already vaccinated. “More than 2,600 people have been vaccinated, and the exercise is progressing well,” Dr Muza confirmed.
Local authorities are calling on residents to maintain strict hygiene practices and seek medical care if they experience symptoms such as diarrhea or dehydration.
The cholera outbreak, first reported at the Gache-Gache fishing camp earlier this month, serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust public health measures to prevent further infections.
As the community rallies to address the crisis, the cancellation of these beloved events highlights the shared responsibility to prioritize health and safety above all.
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