ZANZIBAR, Tanzania – In a tragic incident on Pemba Island in the Zanzibar archipelago, several individuals lost their lives or fell ill after consuming sea turtle meat. The authorities reported the deaths of eight children and one adult, with another 78 individuals hospitalized. This unfortunate outcome is believed to be a result of chelonitoxism, a form of food poisoning.
Dr. Haji Bakari, the medical officer in the Mkoani District, revealed that the mother of one of the deceased children also passed away on Friday. All victims had reportedly eaten the turtle meat on a Tuesday. Sea turtle meat is considered a delicacy in Zanzibar, leading to this tragic turn of events.
Laboratory tests confirmed that all those affected had indeed consumed sea turtle meat. In response to the incident, a disaster management team led by Hamza Hassan Juma was dispatched to educate the public on the dangers of consuming sea turtles. This marks a recurring issue, as a similar incident occurred in November 2021, resulting in fatalities and hospitalizations.
The consumption of sea turtle meat has been a longstanding tradition in Zanzibar, highlighting the need for further awareness and education on the risks involved. These tragic events serve as a reminder of the importance of food safety and the potential dangers of consuming certain delicacies without proper knowledge. Authorities continue to emphasize the avoidance of sea turtle meat to prevent further harm to individuals in the region.
This latest incident in Zanzibar underscores the critical need for community awareness and education regarding food safety practices. As investigations into the cause of the poisoning continue, authorities are working to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The impact of these events extends beyond the immediate victims, highlighting the broader implications of traditional culinary practices and their potential risks.