By Rex Mphisa
GOVERNMENT veterinarians in Matabeleland South are disgruntled with their provincial head Enat Mdlongwa accused of a plethora of alleged misgovernance acts demoralising subordinates, effectively affecting operations in Zimbabwe’s renowned cattle province.
The animal doctors allege Mdlongwa’s actions could be responsible for the provnce’s deterioration in animal health and runaway spread of diseases including foot and mouth ravaging the province with a cattle herd of about 677 000.
The seven veterinary doctors including R Mwaramba, M Nyathi, T Mavedzenge, T Makausi, C Zindoga, S Moyo and T Maravanyika who head districts of the province have written to heir director to articulate their disgruntlement.
Their jointly signed letter, which Ziyah News Network is in holder of, addressed to their chief director at head office P. V. Makaya sought intervention after previous engagements yielded no results.
Mdlongwa ignored questions from Ziyah News Network in relation to the allegations.
“Ngikhuluma lobani sorry (Who am I talking to, sorry?), he asked before going mute.
But in their letter referenced “Urgent Request For Intervention: Leadership Concerns In Matabeleland South Province” the seven touched on issues that affecting their service delivery they say is far low.
“We, the undersigned veterinary doctors of Matabeleland South Province, respectfully write to seek your direct and urgent intervention. Despite our earlier correspondence to the Provincial Veterinary Director (PVD), Dr. Enat Mdlongwa, dated 3 February 2026, outlining concerns about the treatment of veterinarians in the province, the response received on 6 February 2026 failed to acknowledge the seriousness of the issues raised or demonstrate any commitment to corrective action. Subsequently, we engaged the Director of Veterinary Field Services, who advised us to meet with the Deputy Director of Human Resources, Ms. Muchandiona, and her team. That meeting, held on Wednesday 11February 2026 in Gwanda, was constructive, and consensus was reached that the PVD should desist from victimising staff. An apology was issued however, no tangible improvements followed after that,” wrote the animal doctors
“The Provincial Veterinary Director further promised to establish a budgeting committee that would include Dr. Mwaramba, Dr. Nyathi, and Dr. Zindoga. However, this commitment was never honoured,” they said collectively.
According to them, no committee was convened, no follow-ups were made, and district affairs proceeded entirely without the participation or input of veterinarians. This deliberate exclusion of key professionals not only undermined transparency but also sidelined other voices whose contributions are essential to sound decision-making.
The veterinarians listed several grievances and allegations they believe if addressed would change the outlook and their execution of duties.
They alleged poor communication of important matters not shared openly, leaving staff dependent on rumours.
Inadequate logistical support is among the allegations against Mdlongwa accused of failure to facilitate transport to key meetings and workshops unlike other Government departments.
This also resulted in limited training and disease assessment.
“It’s very sad that as Veterinarians we have to beg for resources to execute our duties,” they collectively alleged.
“Requests for essential tools and supplies are ignored, hindering surveillance and control efforts”.
A strong accusation of insolency towards juniors was mentioned where Mdlongwa was fingered for belittling senior staff and publicly ridiculing them.
“Senior staff is belittled publicly, with inappropriate remarks about salaries and benefits. The PVD engages in negative commentary about subordinates’, which undermines professional respect and contributes to a hostile environment,” they collectively wrote..
Mdlongwa was also accused of sidelining Government appointed district heads in decisions they felt weakened coordination and accountability while he had hostility and ill-treatment of staff.
The complaints contained on two pages also mentioned alleged lack of compassion where they said leadership fails to support staff during personal losses, lowering morale.
“Unjust prosecution, with officers performing official duties face persecution, discouraging initiative together with threats and intimidation where staff, especially junior officers, are subjected to intimidation, creating a hostile environment.”
“If these practices persist without meaningful redress, veterinary doctors will be left with no choice but to reevaluate their continued service in Matabeleland South Province. We remain committed to supporting the department’s mission and stand ready to engage constructively in any processes aimed at resolving these challenges,” the doctors said.