Localised action, key to protecting, growing national herd

Localised action, key to protecting, growing national herd

Theseus Shambare

Localised solutions are key drivers to protect the country’s national herd and unlock the full potential of the livestock sector, the Government has said.

The country has a herd of about 5,5 million cattle and is aiming to grow it to six million by 2030 in line with the Livestock Growth Plan, which seeks to ensure food security, improve rural livelihoods and boost the national economy.

Addressing a high-level review of the Sustainable Communal Dipping Model in Gweru, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister Davis Marapira said empowering communities to take the lead in livestock protection was the most effective way to safeguard the herd.

“Cattle are not just animals; they are wealth, draught power, nutrition and income for millions of households. Our national herd is the backbone of the economy, and we must all play our part in protecting and growing it,” he said.

The deputy minister said decentralisation of dipping programmes would ensure sustainability, stressing the need for farmers and traditional leaders to mobilise communities for regular dipping to control tick-borne diseases.

“We cannot rely solely on centralised systems. Communities must take ownership and farmers themselves should lead dipping programmes and safeguard their herds,” he said.

He warned that irregular dipping exposes farmers to devastating losses, urging traditional leaders to take responsibility.

“Every chief and every village head must ensure cattle are dipped regularly. Protecting cattle is protecting our food security, our rural incomes and our nation’s economy,” he said.

Traditional leaders welcomed the approach, pledging to strengthen mobilisation efforts, while stakeholders underscored the need for sustained public-private partnerships to maintain dipping infrastructure and guarantee affordable chemicals.