309 Donkeys Treated in Geita and a New Motorbike to Reach Remote Mining Communities

 

During November 2024, LAZAWO carried out a comprehensive mobile clinic in the small mining communities of Geita. Thanks to our incredible supporters LAZAWO can bring much-needed care to working donkeys. Your commitment directly contributes to lifesaving treatments, critical interventions, and education that improve the lives of these animals and their owners.

The Lazawo veterinary and para-veterinary team were warmly welcomed by regional government officials, who expressed their support for the organisation’s ongoing work at six mines, including Magenge, Katoro, Mugusu, and Rwamugasa.

Key Activities and Achievements:

  • Donkey Care: The team attended to 309 donkeys, addressing various medical concerns and providing treatments. Among the interventions:

    • Deworming: All 399 donkeys treated received deworming medication.

    • Wound Care: 187 donkeys presented wounds caused by beatings, improper harnessing, and poor-fitting harnesses.

    • Critical Cases: One donkey was diagnosed with a hind leg fracture, another had overgrown tumour masses requiring surgery (scheduled for early December), and 63 cases of trypanosomiasis were treated.

    • Unfit for Work: Three donkeys were deemed unfit for labour and were recommended for rest and medical care.

  • Community Education: A total of 70 donkey owners received education on animal care and welfare, conducted directly in their working environments.

Observations and Challenges:

  • Prevalence of Wounds: Approximately 70% of the donkeys were found with wounds, primarily treated by owners using ash and oil. While this method was believed to create a protective layer, it was causing chronic issues.

  • Harsh Working Conditions: Both miners and donkeys faced severe challenges, including the remote and demanding environments of the mines.

  • Infrastructure Needs: The lack of a dedicated space for resting or retiring injured donkeys remains a significant hurdle. Efforts to identify a temporary holding area in Geita are ongoing.

New Resources:

A motorbike has been purchased to improve mobility for the para-veterinary team, enabling them to reach remote mining areas more efficiently. 

Summary of Care (1st–22nd November):

  • 309 donkeys treated

  • 91 follow-up cases

  • 187 donkeys with wounds

  • 70% of donkeys exhibited wounds

  • 63 cases of trypanosomiasis

  • 1 overgrown tumour mass identified for surgical removal

Challenges Highlighted:

  1. Harsh working conditions for both miners and donkeys.

  2. Remote locations of mines, necessitating the use of the newly purchased motorbike for improved access.

  3. Wounds caused by improper or absent harnessing.

  4. Lack of space for donkeys requiring rest or retirement, highlighting the need for a temporary care facility in Geita.

This initiative demonstrates the profound impact of LAZAWO and AAA’s collaboration in improving the welfare of working animals under challenging conditions.

Thank you again for being such an integral part of this work. The difference you make is extraordinary. Every treatment, every education session, and every moment of care provided to these donkeys and their communities happens because of your compassion and generosity. Together, we’re changing lives—one donkey at a time. Thank you for standing with us!

 
Ellie Herodes