Concern is mounting among Mwenezi residents following the absence of mopane worms this season, a development that has disrupted household incomes and raised questions about the sustainability of the mopane ecosystem.
Despite early rains that improved prospects for a good farming season, the mopane trees that dominate the district’s forests remain largely without caterpillars, commonly known locally as gonye remari.
Local resident Beauty Zireva said the disappearance of the worms has affected women who relied on the harvest for income.
“As women, we are the most affected because mopane worms used to help us pay school fees and buy household items. This year there is not even a single mopane worm on the trees,” she said.
She said the loss of income comes at a critical time when families are preparing for the new school term.
“The money from mopane worms used to help us survive the January period, but now life has become difficult,” said Zireva.
Some residents believe human activity may be contributing to the problem.
“I think we are partly to blame because over-harvesting may have destroyed the life cycle of the worms,” she said.
Traditional leaders in the area say the situation also reflects the breakdown of long-standing cultural practices that regulated harvesting.
Chief Chitanga, born Feleni Chauke, said the mopane worm has cultural and spiritual significance in the district.
“The mopane worms are our God-given manna here in Mwenezi. When they do not appear, it shows that something is wrong,” he said.
The chief said traditional rituals that used to guide the harvesting process are no longer being observed.
“In our traditions, the gathering of caterpillars was supposed to start after rituals led by traditional leaders, but people are now harvesting without observing these customs,” he said.
Residents say the absence of mopane worms has affected not only household incomes but also local trade, as the seasonal business usually boosts activity at growth points during the festive season.
