Cattle breeders eye lucrative deals at ZITF

CATTLE breeders are optimistic about clinching lucrative business deals at this year’s Bulawayo Agricultural Show (BAS), which is running concurrently with the 65th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF). The event got off to a strong start in Bulawayo on Monday.

This year’s BAS has attracted entries from both individual farmers and agricultural institutions, including 10 pedigree and 43 fat stock exhibits. The show, which runs until Saturday, continues to be a major crowd-puller, drawing thousands of local and international visitors.

BAS chairman, Mr Obert Chinhamo, confirmed that livestock from across the country had arrived and been settled into their respective cattle pens at the show-grounds.

“On the pedigree side, we have 10 farmers exhibiting livestock, ranging from Simmentals and Brahmans to Nkone.
“All the animals are already in their cattle pens at the Bulawayo Agricultural Show. Individual farmers and organisations such as Khami Prison and the Matopos Research Centre will be showcasing their cattle,” he said.

Mr Chinhamo, himself a renowned Simmental pedigree breeder, is among the individual exhibitors displaying prized livestock at this year’s ZITF.

The Simmental breed, known for its dual-purpose characteristics — beef and milk — has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Originating from the Simme Valley in Switzerland, the breed emerged from the cross-breeding of large German cattle with smaller indigenous Swiss breeds.

In addition to livestock, this year’s BAS features displays of tractors, modern agricultural equipment and improved seed varieties, with the veterinary department on hand to ensure a disease-free exhibition.

Running under the theme, “Industrialisation: Crafting an Integrated Economic Landscape,” this year’s ZITF aims to promote strategic partnerships, economic integration and industrial growth — goals reflected in the efforts of rural farmers, who are taking centre stage at the agricultural showcase.

Among the exhibitors is Mr Jairos Mahlangu, a respected Brahman breeder, whose herd has grown to an impressive 400. A former commercial beef producer, Mr Mahlangu, transitioned to pedigree breeding after introducing top-quality bulls to enhance his stock.

Speaking to Chronicle, Mr Mahlangu expressed his excitement about being part of this year’s event, where he is exhibiting eight Brahman cattle, including two bulls, several heifers and a two-month-old calf, under his Hlango Ranch brand.

“All the cattle I’ve brought this year are new entries. I’m confident, they’ll perform well and attract the judges’ attention. Competition is always stiff, but we’re ready to give the more established breeders a good challenge in the Pedigree Cattle Show,” he said.

Operating from communal land in Mbalabala, Mr Mahlangu has defied the odds, expanding his operations by securing additional grazing land in Shangani (Matabeleland South) and Nyamandlovu (Matabeleland North).

To maintain his herd’s health, he runs a dedicated dipping point at his kraal, where he applies tick grease and sprays the cattle every Sunday.

Additionally, he takes the herd to the communal dip tank every Wednesday for added protection against tick-borne diseases.