Online Reporter
Judith Phiri ,Zimpapers Business Hub
THE Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development has encouraged farmers to make use of wheat harvesting residue as livestock feed.
Wheat harvesting residue comprises the stalks and leaves left behind after combining, which can be a valuable resource when properly managed.
Zimbabwe is expected to harvest over 600 000 tonnes of wheat, as the planted area of 122 142 hectares has exceeded the initial national target of 120 000 hectares.
In an interview, Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) Acting Chief Director, Mr Leonard Munamati, said efforts were underway to educate farmers on cutting hay earlier.
“We are already working with farmers who have completed wheat harvesting so that we continue producing hay bales from the straw during this period. We will also be educating farmers to ensure they cut hay much earlier. Normally, farmers delay cutting hay until it is too late, which reduces its nutritional value,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of farmers having sufficient hay bales to feed their cattle and noted that training would be provided on urea treatment of stover to enhance its protein content.
Mr Munamati added: “During the 2025/26 summer season, we have developed a livestock plan to increase the number of livestock, particularly cattle, which were previously affected by the El Niño-induced drought experienced some time ago.”
He said the plan includes encouraging farmers to grow fodder at the smallholder level, ensuring every household is prepared to feed their livestock.
He also highlighted the importance of silage production and noted that dairy farmers are receiving Government support in terms of seed provision.
Fodder and silage production have become critical for farmers, helping to reduce over-reliance on pastures, which have become increasingly unpredictable due to climate change. Meanwhile, on-farm feed production (OFFP) is playing a vital role in providing supplementary feed for livestock.
