Online Reporter
Edgar Vhera
GOVERNMENT has introduced a KoBoCollect Stock card to easily track livestock data, access real-time insights and improve accuracy.
The KoBoCollect Stock card embeds a physical card and a digital platform.
Every livestock owner will receive a physical card embedded with a unique identification code linked to a digital record.
This system can be accessed through a mobile application and a web-based platform, allowing farmers, veterinary officers and other stakeholders to manage livestock data efficiently.
Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS) chief director Dr Pious Makaya said the introduction of the new stock card marked a significant milestone in the livestock production sector.
“We are pleased to announce that the rollout of the new stock card is imminent, with sufficient stocks available, we are confident that all livestock owners nationwide will have access to this important tool.
“The new stock card system is designed to provide numerous benefits to livestock owners, including improved record-keeping, enhanced transparency and better decision-making,” Dr Makaya said.
He said the tool was poised to revolutionise livestock data management, enabling more informed decision-making at the national level.
The development of the new stock card has been a key area of focus, with widespread consultation and feedback from stakeholders.
This collaborative approach ensures that the new system meets the needs of livestock owners and industry players.
The new stock card ensures that livestock data is accurately captured and stored, reducing errors and inconsistencies.
With access to reliable and timely data, decision-makers can make informed choices that drive the livestock industry forward.
“The old stock card system was vulnerable to abuse and duplication. The new system mitigates this risk, providing a secure and reliable way to track livestock ownership and movement,” he added.
The new stock card provides a clear and transparent record of livestock details, giving farmers and authorities confidence in the system.
“By leveraging technology and innovation, we can drive economic growth, improve food security and enhance the overall well-being of our citizens. The introduction of the new stock card aligns with Zimbabwe’s national objectives as outlined in Vision 2030,” Dr Makaya said.
Dr Makaya said the new stock cards will be made available to communal farmers through the Department of Veterinary Field Services’ network of veterinary extension staff stationed at the ward level.
“Farmers can access these cards when they bring their cattle for routine dipping under the National Dipping Programme. Veterinary extension staff at the ward level will be responsible for distributing and assisting with the new stock cards,” he said.
The digital stock card includes detailed records such as animal identification and ownership, vaccination and treatment history, calving information, movement permits and sales history.
“This helps farmers track animal health trends, plan treatments and vaccinations, improve breeding decisions and prepare animals for market in a well-documented manner,” continued Dr Makaya.
The new stock card system boasts several enhanced features that improve its functionality and security, such as a unique serial number and a watermark, making it difficult to duplicate or tamper with.
The card will also capture detailed information (registration including quarterly census data) on cattle, goats, sheep, poultry, dogs and donkeys.
It will also provide more detailed cattle demographics (numbers of oxen, cows, steers, bulls and calves).
The DVS is currently conducting training programmes to equip staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively implement the new stock card system.
Training is on the features and functionality of the new stock card and online registration.
The livestock digital stock card system offers several benefits to farmers, such as improved disease surveillance, faster outbreak response, better market access and streamlined livestock movement permits and among others.
