Harare CBD venue faces closure over pet food allegations

A Central Business District hangout in Harare could get shut down fast after whispers that customers were fed pet chow instead of real meals.

Venue under fire in Harare CBD

• A social spot in Harare’s Central Business District is under heat.
• The place runs a restaurant and bar downstairs.
• Upstairs, another bar keeps the drinks flowing.
• Rumors claim diners may have been served pet food.

City health chief orders probe

• Prosper Chonzi, the City of Harare’s director of health services, stepped in.
• Tuesday comments from Chonzi signaled inspections are coming.
• Authorities could lock the doors if food laws were broken.
• Officers were told to start checks before the week’s end.

Food safety law in play

• The Food and Food Standards Act covers every food outlet.
• That law demands tight hygiene and safety rules at all times.
• Chonzi stressed the Act does not skip bars or restaurants.
• Breaches under that framework can trigger closure.

Disease fears raise the stakes

• City officials flagged typhoid and cholera risks in the city centre.
• Harare’s vulnerability to outbreaks makes the reports extra alarming.
• Exposure worries grow when hygiene slips in busy districts.
• Chonzi warned that many people could be put at risk.

Inspection to dig beyond the menu

• Investigators will check more than what is on the plate.
• Toilets and water sources are on the inspection list.
• Staff credentials and medical certificates will face scrutiny.
• TB status and handwashing practices are also under review.