By Chisomo Phiri
Tragedy struck Matimba Village under Traditional Authority (T/A) Chioshya in Mchinji District on Wednesday afternoon when a devastating lightning strike killed at least 34 cows.
Mchinji District Animal Health and Livestock Officer Mwiza Msiska confirmed of the tragic event.
“Our veterinary officers are conducting thorough checks to verify the cause of death.
“If lightning is confirmed as the cause, the animals may still be safe for consumption.
“However, we are taking all necessary precautions and conducting standard checks to rule out any other potential causes,” explained Msiska.
Eyewitness Bisayi Makowa recounted the harrowing scene, saying the cows were seeking shelter under a tree when the lightning struck.
“The lightning seemed to target the cows, leaving the tree unscathed,” Makowa described.
Authorities swiftly responded to the scene, with Mchinji Police Public Relations Officer(PRO) Limbani Mpinganjira confirming no human fatalities.
“Fortunately, we have received no reports of human casualties,” Mpinganjira said.
The incident has resulted in a significant financial loss, estimated at over K17 million, with each cow valued at approximately K500,000.
Meanwhile,authorities are working to determine whether the cows belonged to multiple owners.
