Livestock players chart growth path at ZITF

Nqobile Bhebhe

LIVESTOCK players have converged at the Zimbabwe International Conference and Exhibition Smart City (ZICES) in Bulawayo for the second edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Livestock Conference, a high-level platform expected to drive transformation across the sector.

Running under the theme, “Advancing Livestock Value Chains for Economic Development,” the conference signals renewed urgency to unlock value, enhance productivity and position Zimbabwe’s livestock industry for both regional and international markets.

The event, hosted by the ZITF Company in partnership with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development and the Bulawayo Agricultural Society (BAS), has drawn industry leaders, policymakers, researchers and innovators from across the country and beyond.

Deliberations are focused on crafting practical strategies to accelerate growth, strengthen resilience and modernise livestock systems, with several local and regional value chain players showcasing products and services through exhibitions.

Farmers and producers are set to benefit from expert insights on transitioning from subsistence production to commercially viable, export-oriented enterprises.

Local and international firms are exhibiting.

Discussions will also tackle critical issues such as breeding premium grass-fed livestock, improving disease surveillance and control systems, and enhancing competitiveness in global markets.

Key presentations are expected from the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, and BAS president Mr Promise Ncube.

The conference also features prominent voices including AFC Holdings regional manager Mrs Priscilla Musundire, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) Zimbabwe country representative Professor Sikhala Dube and Livestock and Meat Advisory Council chief executive Dr Rennet Mano.

Agricultural Marketing Authority chief executive Ms Alice Mpfiza and Matopos Research Institute head of beef research Mr Bruce Tavirimirwa are also lined up to share insights, alongside Circle Y Abattoir (Mbokodo) representative Mr Adam York.

Emerging industry players are equally taking centre stage, among them Leather Witch Company’s Ms Nicole Sibanda, Boer goat breeder Mr Providence Shoko, Lupane State University acting head of Animal Science Mr Sizo Moyo, and Africa-Zimbabwe Model Parliament Minister of Agriculture Ms Phumzile Ntonisani.

The diverse line-up underscores a deliberate focus on strengthening production systems, widening market access and fostering youth participation, as Zimbabwe seeks to build a robust and competitive livestock value chain.