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Nyore Madzianike Senior Reporter
A MUTARE-based investment promotion organisation has embarked on a livestock fattening programme to assist farmers who are at risk of losing their cattle to the effects of a prolonged dry spell that affected pastures in some parts of the province.
The fattening programme is also expected to boost cattle production and preserve some breeds in line with the Government’s efforts to grow the national herd.
Federation Investment Entrepreneur Fund (FIEF) has since started fattening cattle and goats in Mutare districts and is calling on farmers to join the programme.
FIEF president Mr Mike Duru said the programme had downstream benefits as farmers would be able to sell their beasts at higher prices.
“This programme, which we have already kick-started in Mutare, is set to preserve breeds and save cattle and goats from dying due to the drought,” he said.
“We are therefore calling farmers who are willing to join the programme to come forward and register with us.
“The programme has downstream benefits to the famers as they will be able to get more for their cattle after fattening and in some instances preserve their breeds,” said Mr Duru.
Mr Duru said his organisation has since established centres around Mutare district where the livestock would be kept.
“This programme is not only looking at cattle but goats as well. We have people who have since come forward with their livestock while others have shown interest. Our organisation have set up places around Mutare district where the livestock would be fattened,” he said.
Mr Duru also said his organisation will be employing people who would be trained in livestock fattening in various places.
“This programme will also create employment opportunities for people who will be taking care of the livestock. These people will be responsible for security and fattening,” he said.
Mr Duru said plans were in the pipeline to take the programme to other areas around the province.
Online Reporter