Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa in Matabeleland South
ZIMBABWE’S future food security and climate resilience depend on the promotion of indigenous cattle breeds (Mashona, Nguni, Tuli and Nkone), the Government and stakeholders have said.
Speaking to Zimpapers during the tour of Shangani Holistic Ranch in Matabeleland South Province yesterday, Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Deputy Minister Davies Marapira called for the protection of indigenous breeds.
He said indigenous cattle are drought-resilient, disease-resistant, and healthier for consumers compared to exotic breeds.
“We have been having droughts from as early as 1900, but our indigenous breeds managed to survive within the drought situation.
“Let’s go indigenous; that will reduce pressure even on our health, and we will live better than if we focus on exotic breeds and feeds,” he said.
Livestock and Fisheries Production Department Director Milton Makumbe explained the climate-smart technologies behind indigenous cattle promotion.
He said repopulating Zimbabwe with indigenous breeds boosts fertility, strengthens crop-livestock integration and sustains beef production.
“These cattle are very resilient, strong animals with high fertility, well suited for our land. We are trying to ensure that the baseline for our cattle production should be based on the foundation of our indigenous species,” he said.
Shangani Holistic Range Resident Director Max Makuvisa also explained the heritage and export potential of indigenous breeds.
He said indigenous cattle are uniquely Zimbabwean, hardy and produce meat that can distinguish the country in global markets.
“They have been thousands of years in the making, well adapted to Zimbabwe’s conditions.”
Shangani Holistic Range Breeding Officer Miss Thabile Ndhlovu outlined the sustainable development pillars embodied by indigenous cattle.
“These animals have always formed a huge part of our culture as a people, holding cultural significance in our lives.
“They utilise poor quality forage and convert it into high-quality grass-fed beef, cutting down costs and improving health outcomes.”
Experts also highlighted the need for increased investment in extension services, research and farmer education to scale up indigenous livestock production.
Stakeholders said improving breeding programmes, strengthening value chains and enhancing market access would ensure farmers fully benefit from the resilience of local breeds.
They added that strategic support for indigenous cattle could position Zimbabwe as a competitive exporter of high-quality, climate-smart beef products in regional and international markets.
