Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
GOVERNMENT is committed to ensuring that livestock remain a critical and secure “walking bank” for Zimbabwean farmers and has prioritised the immediate distribution of acaricides (dipping chemicals) to all provinces, with particular focus on high-risk areas.
The high-risk areas include Masvingo, Midlands, Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South. Following the recent Government declaration of an Emergency Nationwide Dipping period, the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development is carrying out a high-level assessment of Coopers Zimbabwe’s production readiness, with Deputy Minister Davies Marapira leading a delegation to the firm’s headquarters in Bulawayo.
In a press release, the Ministry said the move signals a decisive intervention to combat the surge in tick-borne diseases, specifically Theileriosis (January Disease), and to safeguard the national herd.
“To ensure the uninterrupted supply of these critical chemicals, treasury has released dedicated funding to support local manufacturers. This strategic investment is designed to unlock production lines at domestic firms like Coopers Zimbabwe to ensure bulk availability, stabilize the supply chain for over 4 211 communal dip tanks nationwide,” said the Ministry.
The Ministry said the investment is aimed at removing the burden of availability from farmers, ensuring that their primary focus remains on mobilising cattle to dip tanks.
It also noted with concern the migration of January Disease into regions where it was previously rare, such as Matabeleland North. In response, the Government is pivoting towards a dual-action defence strategy which is:
1. Specialised Chemical Deployment: Utilizing high-efficacy acaricides specifically formulated for resistant tick strains and,2. Integrated Protection: Combining rigorous dipping schedules with the new BOLVAC vaccine to provide a comprehensive shield against infection.
The Ministry urged all livestock owners to adhere to biosecurity and management protocols to protect their wealth.
“This emergency program is a vital component of the Government’s broader mission to reach a US$8.2 billion agricultural economy by 2030. By restoring the national herd to full health, the Ministry is ensuring that livestock remains a secure “walking bank” for the Zimbabwean farmer,” read the Ministry statement.
