Petition Launched To Ban Pitbulls In Zimbabwe

There are growing calls to ban pitbulls as domestic pets in Zimbabwe after a Harare man, Samuel Machara, was mauled to death by a cross-breed pitbull in Bluffhill on Sunday.

Machara’s tragic death isn’t the first of its kind as there have been several similar incidents involving pitbulls in recent years.

Gospel musician Tembalami has started a petition calling for a ban, saying these dogs have become a serious threat to public safety. The petition reads:

We have had countless deaths caused by pit bulls. Now it’s time to act. For years, the pit bull breed has been associated with savage attacks resulting in serious injuries and, tragically, fatalities in our communities. 

Despite taking necessary precautions, the inherent aggressive nature of these dogs has led to unforeseen and heartbreaking incidents involving our loved ones.

The increasing number of pit bull attacks highlights the urgent need for action. In countries like the United Kingdom and Canada, legislation has been implemented that bans or severely restricts the breeding and ownership of pit bulls. 

Such measures have led to a decrease in dangerous encounters and have proven effective in enhancing public safety.

Zimbabwe must take a similar approach to ensure the well-being of its citizens. A nationwide ban on pit bull ownership as pets and as security dogs will significantly reduce the risk of attacks. 

Pet owners can opt for other breeds that are known for their kindness and loyalty, providing a safer environment for all.

A number of countries have either banned or put restrictions on pit bulls because of worries about aggression and safety. Countries like Denmark, Ecuador, Venezuela, Israel, and Norway have outright bans. 

Meanwhile, countries like France, Spain, and Australia have strict rules in place, such as requiring sterilisation or muzzling the dogs when they’re out in public.