Zimbabwean snake handler wants to change perceptions about the misunderstood reptiles
As first appeared in News Hawks in Zimbabwe, here. Produced by Mary Mundeya.
November 25 2022
Man spends his time catching and relocating snakes, educating public on reptile conservation
Black mamba is among the common species of snakes in Zimbabwe.
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mage by Glen Carrie.
Snakes play an important role in the ecosystem including pest control which prevents diseases from spreading to humans. However, in Zimbabwe traditional beliefs have led people to despise snakes, relating them to witchcraft. Chawatama Marimo is a snake handler who has made it his mission to change peoples’ minds about the reptiles. He grew up passionate about wildlife, and now spends his time catching and relocating snakes while also raising awareness about their importance. Mary Mundeya talked to him about his work and life.
Watch the mini documentary on Facebook, here.
This article is reproduced here as part of the African Conservation Journalism Programme, funded in Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe by USAID’s VukaNow: Activity. Implemented by the international conservation organisation Space for Giants, it aims to expand the reach of conservation and environmental journalism in Africa, and bring more African voices into the international conservation debate. Written articles from the Mozambican and Angolan cohorts are translated from Portuguese. Broadcast stories remain in the original language.
