ZANZIBAR, Tanzania – A tragic incident occurred on Pemba Island in the Zanzibar archipelago, where several individuals lost their lives or fell ill after consuming sea turtle meat, according to authorities. Among the affected were eight children who passed away and 78 others who were hospitalized. The consumption of sea turtle meat, considered a delicacy by the people of Zanzibar, is believed to have led to these fatalities due to chelonitoxism, a form of food poisoning.
Dr. Haji Bakari, the medical officer of Mkoani District, disclosed that all victims had consumed sea turtle meat, which was confirmed through laboratory tests. The tragedy unfolded when an adult, the mother of one of the deceased children, passed away on Friday after consuming the turtle meat that had been ingested by the children earlier in the week.
Reminiscent of a similar incident in November 2021, where seven people, including a 3-year-old, died on Pemba Island after consuming turtle meat, the latest event has sparked renewed concerns regarding the dangers associated with consuming this particular dish. In response to the recent tragedy, a disaster management team led by Hamza Hassan Juma has been dispatched by authorities in Zanzibar to oversee the situation and caution the public against eating sea turtles.
The news of these fatalities serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by consuming certain types of wildlife, especially sea turtles, which can have severe consequences for human health. Urging caution and advocating for the preservation of marine life, local officials are working to spread awareness about the potential dangers associated with consuming such animals in the hopes of preventing further tragedies from occurring.
With the loss of innocent lives weighing heavily on the community, efforts to educate the public on the risks of consuming sea turtle meat continue as authorities in Zanzibar work to prevent future instances of chelonitoxism and food poisoning. As investigations into this tragic incident unfold, the need for greater awareness and vigilance regarding the consumption of certain wildlife species remains a top priority for local officials in order to safeguard public health and well-being.