By Hwange Chronicles Staff May 4, 2026
HWANGE – In a swift response to rising concerns over public safety and stray animal management, the Hwange Local Board (HLB) has officially partnered with the Department of Veterinary Services to launch an intensive dog licensing and rabies vaccination campaign.
The move comes just weeks after a harrowing attack on a young girl in Chibondo, an incident that sparked a town-wide conversation on the legal and moral obligations of pet owners. The newly announced program represents a significant turning point in the local authority’s approach to urban animal control.
A One-Stop Shop for Compliance
Starting today, Monday, May 4, 2026, Council officers will be stationed alongside Veterinary Services teams at various mobile points across Hwange. This collaboration allows residents to achieve full legal compliance in a single visit: ensuring their dogs are medically protected against rabies and legally registered with the local board.
The campaign is not just a matter of convenience; it is a matter of law. Under the new directive, the following fee structure and penalties have been established:
| Service / Violation | Fee / Fine (USD) |
| Dog Licence (Annual) | $10.00 |
| Rabies Vaccination (per dog) | $1.00 |
| Fine: Unlicensed Dog | $20.00 |
| Fine: Unfenced/Ungated Premises | $20.00 |
| Fine: Walking Dog without a Leash | $20.00 |
| Fine: No Valid Rabies Card | $30.00 |
Where to Go: Vaccination & Licensing Schedule (08:00 – 14:00)
Authorities have fanned out across the district to ensure no neighborhood is left behind.
- Monday, 04 May: Empumalanga Shopping Centre, Nechibondo Primary, Kalope Secondary.
- Tuesday, 05 May: T-Section Tuckshop, Megawatt Primary, AFM Hillside Church.
- Wednesday, 06 May: Lusumbami, Madumabisa, and Makwika Village Offices.
- Thursday, 07 May: Ingagula Village Office, NRZ Ngumija Clinic, NRZ Railton Club.
- Friday, 08 May: Lwendulu Village Office, No.1 North (Sindrella), and the Hwange Vet Office.
A Necessary Shield for Hwange
The introduction of these measures is more than just a regulatory update; it is a necessary shield for the community. For too long, the distinction between a “pet” and a “public hazard” has been blurred by lax containment and skipped vaccinations.
By setting the vaccination fee at a nominal $1.00, the Department of Veterinary Services has removed the financial barrier to health, leaving “no excuse” for owners to harbor unvaccinated animals amidst a reported widespread rabies outbreak in the country.
Why this matters:
- Public Safety: Proper licensing and leashing prevent the “roaming” culture that led to the recent tragedies.
- Disease Control: Rabies is 100% fatal but 100% preventable. A vaccinated dog population creates a “buffer zone” that protects humans.
- Accountability: A license is a record of ownership. It ensures that if an incident occurs, there is a clear line of responsibility.
The Hwange Local Board’s decision to move from “notices” to “action” deserves commendation. However, the success of this move depends entirely on the residents. For the safety of our children and the welfare of our pets, it is time for Hwange to step up, pay the $1, and get licensed.
For emergencies, residents can contact the Fire & Rescue services at +263 719 999 551 or follow the Hwange Local Board on Facebook for real-time updates.
Key Takeaways for Social Media
- Rabies Vac: Only $1.00.
- Licensing: $10.00.
- Fines: Start at $20.00—more than the cost of compliance!
- Status: Ongoing all week across Hwange.
