Bulawayo firm repackaging water-damaged rice

Published: 3 hours ago

Bulawayo authorities have launched an investigation into Flynote Investments (Pvt) Ltd, a local company accused of repackaging water-damaged rice, originally designated for stock feed, and distributing it for human consumption.

According to the latest Bulawayo City Council report, the Thorngrove-based company, operating under the Evergold brand, had 322 tonnes of rice confiscated and sent to the Government Analyst Laboratory for testing. The rice was reportedly handled in a stock feed facility lacking basic food-grade standards, raising concerns about potential contamination with mould, bacteria, and chemical residues.

"Water-damaged bulk rice for stock feed was being packaged and sold for human consumption. The rice was being packaged in a stock feed factory with extremely poor hygienic conditions," the council report stated. Efforts to obtain a comment from Flynote Investments were unsuccessful.

The report also highlighted other complaints received by the council during the same period, ranging from noise pollution to public indecency. Among the complaints were human excreta at Burombo Beer Garden in Mzilikazi, noise and smell from pigs reared at a residential property on Marimba Road, Matsheumhlope, and overcrowding at a four-bedroom house on Msigwana Road, Harrisvale, housing 15 people across three families.

Meanwhile, Bulawayo councillors have called for a similar tie-up order targeting stray cats, following a recent 10-day campaign to control stray dogs. Councillor Lazarus Mphadwe praised the dog tie-up initiative but noted that the city also has a growing population of stray cats, particularly in the Central Business District, which requires a deliberate management policy.

Councillor Felix Madzana added that cat populations have surged in residential areas, contributing to noise, smell, and fly infestations, particularly where residents keep poultry. The councillors also highlighted concerns over vicious dog breeds, which they said pose a danger to residents.

Responding to the council, Director of Health Services Dr Edwin Mzingwane confirmed that a policy addressing vicious dog breeds is being drafted, with input expected from stakeholders including the SPCA, Zimbabwe Republic Police, and Veterinary Services. He reported that 79 stray dogs were removed during the 10-day tie-up order, and another operation is planned.

Dr Mzingwane emphasized that while cats play a crucial role in controlling rats, their population must be managed responsibly. He cautioned against drastic measures, citing Johannesburg's Alexandra area, where mass cat killings led to a surge in the rat population, forcing authorities to introduce owls to restore ecological balance.

The council urged residents to remain vigilant while authorities continue enforcing food safety regulations and implementing animal control measures to safeguard public health and wellbeing.
- online

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