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RVF proves boom for Mbeya pork dealers
2007-05-08 09:53:36
By Thobias Mwanakatwe, PST, Mbeya
The pork business in Mbeya Region has experienced a sudden boom following assurance by the government that pigs do not suffer from the dreaded Rift Valley Fever (RVF).
And a recent ban by Mbeya District Commissioner Leonidas Gama which he slapped on goat, beef and mutton roasted meat (mishikaki) business has proved to be welcome news to pork dealers and pig keepers.
However, the assurance has proved to be bad news to the not-so-well-off as a kilogramme of pork now sells at 3,500/-, up from the previous 2,500/-.
During his recent sensitisation campaign to prevent further spread of RVF, especially among rural communities, Gama urged people to refrain from indiscriminate consumption of roasted meat.
He took part in community health campaigns that brought welcome relief to pig keepers and pork dealers.
``Pork and chicken are free from RVF, so those wishing to eat roasted meat can go ahead. We don’t want to witness new cases of RVF in this district. Preventive measures should be taken. Local authorities and the general public should remain on alert to contain the disease,`` Gama explained.
John Kapauza, a resident of Mwanjelwa on the outskirts of Mbeya City, is one of the traders enjoying a windfall following a hike in the price of pork. He says prior to the outbreak of RVF, he sold hardly one pig. Currently he is selling at least three animals a day.
``Business is booming, especially at drinking joints. Drinkers who previously preferred beef have switched to pork and the number of consumers is increasing by the day,`` Kapauza explained.
However, the booming business has had some negative implications for some residents, especially low-income earners like Mwakilau Anangisye.
``Pork has now become a rare commodity that only the well-to-do can afford. Those with low income cannot afford the price of 3,500/- for a kilogramme. Concerned authorities should intervene to regulate the market prices,`` Anangisye suggested.
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