Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
GOAT farming is proving to be increasingly profitable in Zimbabwe, with Woodlands Farm in Kwekwe emerging as a trailblazer following the importation of high-quality Boer goat breeds from Namibia.
Boasting a herd of over 2 000 high-value goats, the farm is positioning itself at the forefront of innovation in the livestock sector, with plans to increase the number to 5 000 by the end of the year.
To realise this target, the farm has adopted modern practices such as artificial insemination and improved feeding systems to enhance the health and productivity of its goats.
The expansion of goat breeding at Woodlands Farm aligns with the Second Republic’s Livestock Recovery and Growth Plan, which seeks to revitalise and commercialise the livestock industry through technological advancements and strategic investment.
As the farm expands, it is also contributing to knowledge transfer and job creation in the Midlands Province, illustrating how rural industrialisation and modern agricultural practices can work in tandem to support national development under Vision 2030.
Woodlands Farm Managing Director, Mr Onius Mutetwa, said the introduction of artificial insemination is in line with national goals to modernise the livestock sector.
He noted that growth is also being driven by an upgraded feeding system designed to boost productivity and improve breed quality.
“We have now upgraded our facilities to introduce artificial insemination. This latest move is aimed at improving our breeds and contributing towards shaping the national herd,” said Mr Mutetwa.
“We are also implementing a refined feeding scheme to ensure we meet our monthly breeding targets,” he said during a recent tour of the farm.
Mr Mutetwa said they aim to grow the herd by an average of 800 goats per month.
“This increase in the herd puts us on track to reach our 5 000-goat target by year-end, while we continue to meet market demand,” he added.
Chairman of Woodlands Farm, Dr Paul Chatikobo, said the farm is exploring export opportunities, particularly in the Middle East, where there is strong demand for halal-certified meat.
He emphasised the farm’s readiness to enter these international markets, noting that they have acquired the necessary infrastructure to meet export standards.
“You can see that we are keen on growing our herd. We have identified the Middle East as a lucrative target market.
However, they have specific requirements for halal meat,” said Dr Chatikobo.
He added that specialists would be engaged to ensure halal certification, thereby enabling the farm to access the Middle East market.
