Helping thousands of donkeys to be seen

Across remote communities in Zimbabwe, we are working to transform the lives of thousands of donkeys.

In the border town of Beitbridge, nestled between Zimbabwe and South Africa, we have been partnering with Veterinarians for Animal Welfare Zimbabwe (VAWZ) since 2018. Here, hard-working donkeys help to transport essentials like water, firewood, goods and people, while also playing a vital role in farm work. Their contribution is crucial and often lifesaving as they help to support the livelihoods of families.

Donkeys in Beitbridge face many challenges. From poor welfare conditions due to poor nutrition, management and handling practices, to abandonment and the risk of road traffic accidents.

Increasing visibility

Far too often these hard-working animals face danger and injury on the roads at night when it is dark and visibility is poor. As the donkeys roam free in herds, rather than living in fields protected by fencing, they are particularly vulnerable to being struck by vehicles.

In response to high numbers of road traffic accidents involving donkeys in Beitbridge, our project came up with the ‘bright’ idea of using fluorescent bands around the donkey’s necks as a safety measure. Thanks to this simple, low-cost and effective initiative, the donkeys are now more visible. Nighttime road traffic accidents have been reduced and fewer donkeys are being injured, or worse, losing their lives.

With many of these remote communities having very limited medical supplies, when an animal is injured, every second counts. So, this preventative measure is even more welcome.

Our International Programme Officer, Faye Al-Nakeeb, recently visited our project in Beitbridge. She said: “Last year, more than 10,000 donkeys were given fluorescent bands in the Beitbridge area of Zimbabwe through our project with VAWZ. This straightforward measure has improved visibility on the roads at night, and communities have reported a reduction in road accidents involving donkeys.

“The initiative represents a practical step toward improving the safety and welfare of these stoic animals, which play an important role in supporting their owners’ livelihoods. It is one of several ways the project aims to support both the animals and the communities that depend on them.”

Thanks to our supporters, the fluorescent bands now sit alongside other initiatives that our partnership in Zimbabwe is building, including the work of Community-Based Livestock Advisors and ongoing welfare support, while also raising awareness among communities about donkey welfare needs.

To help donkeys stay safe and to transform even more lives, donate today.