Transforming Lives and Reducing Suffering for Donkeys in Tanzania’s Gold Mines
In Geita, Tanzania, the Lake Zone Animal Welfare Organization (LAZAWO), supported by Animal Aid Abroad, is providing veterinary care, rescue services, and welfare education for donkeys working in harsh gold mining environments. Their work is reducing suffering, restoring dignity, and creating long‑term improvements in animal welfare.
Veterinary Care in Mining Communities
In June, LAZAWO’s Geita Donkey Project reached 364 donkeys across six major gold mines and surrounding communities. Clinical interventions addressed wounds, eye problems, mange, hoof conditions, respiratory illness, and parasites. Without this care, many animals would continue to suffer from painful, debilitating conditions.
Follow-Up Care and Recovery
Regular follow‑up visits ensured continuity of treatment for previously injured donkeys. Majata, a donkey with severe cheek tissue loss and exposed bone, continued to receive wound management and pain relief. Her recovery reflects the importance of sustained veterinary attention and the impact of donor support.
Clinics and Welfare Education
Two general clinics in Lwamgasa and Nyaruyeye attended to 131 donkeys. Alongside treatment, welfare sessions educated 57 owners and handlers on humane handling, nutrition, and cruelty prevention. Police officers joined discussions to highlight the legal consequences of abuse, reinforcing accountability within communities.
These sessions are already showing results, with owners adopting safer practices and communities beginning to structure by‑laws against cruelty. Early engagement with school students has also sparked compassion, as children reported abandoned donkeys in need of help.
Anti-Cruelty Recognition
As part of AAA’s Anti‑Cruelty Program, five exemplary handlers were publicly recognised for maintaining their donkeys in good condition despite demanding workloads. This recognition encourages positive behaviour and sets examples for others in mining communities.
Case Study: Lize’s Struggle for Water
Lize, a donkey from Mgusu, was found trapped in deep mud while searching for water during the dry season. Severely exhausted and dehydrated, she received supportive treatment and close monitoring. With dedicated care, she regained strength and is now recovering well. Her story highlights the urgent need for safe, accessible water sources for working donkeys in mining areas.
Case Study: Madaha’s Second Chance
Madaha, abandoned near a school and left lying in the sun for over 12 hours, was rescued after developing hind limb paresis. Stabilised with fluids and vitamins, he was transferred to the sanctuary where he regained health and weight. His recovery demonstrates how compassionate intervention can transform the life of an abandoned working animal.
Challenges and Future Plans
Persistent challenges include harmful traditional practices, limited awareness, and lack of safe water sources. LAZAWO plans to construct water troughs around mining sites to ensure donkeys have continuous access to clean drinking water, reducing risks of exhaustion and contamination.
Building a Future of Compassion
The progress in Geita shows how veterinary care, welfare education, and community engagement can reduce suffering and improve the lives of working donkeys. Each recovery story reflects the mission of AAA and its partners to restore dignity and wellbeing.
This work is only possible because of your support. Every clinic, rescue, and welfare session is a direct result of your generosity, allowing AAA to sustain partnerships like LAZAWO and continue transforming the lives of working animals.