December 19, 2008

Mysterious bird disease breaks out in South African district

Some poultry farmers in Mansa district, capital of north Zambia's Luapula Province, have complained about the loss of business due to a mysterious disease that has ravaged hundreds of chicks on Thursday (Dec 18).

Speaking on behalf of the affected poultry farmers, Alfred Kaluba said chickens worth over US$2,000 have so far died of the mysterious bird disease.

Kaluba said the disease is suspected to have been caused by the Hybrid hatchery in Kitwe city after immature eggs were hatched.

The hatchery refuted and placed blame on feedstock from Tiger Animal Feeds which dismissed the claims.

He also said he has appealed to the government through relevant ministries to intervene and help establish the cause of the mysterious bird disease before the situation worsens.