tawandamusarurwa
Theseus Shambare
STAKEHOLDERS in the livestock industry have compiled a report that is meant to ensure farmers can grow the national cattle herd to the targeted eight million by 2025 in an environmentally sustainable manner.
The initiative is also part of Government’s Livestock Recovery and Growth Plan (2020 to 2025).
Experts who recently attended a two-day report validation workshop in Kadoma say the national herd could be grown sustainably by reducing greenhouse gas emissions in livestock while maximising production.
Dr Clarice Mudzengi, who is a livestock, wildlife and fisheries lecturer at Great Zimbabwe University, said farmers need to employ climate-smart practices in livestock systems.
“Expanding the national herd is good and achievable within the stated timeline.
“What is now required is to ensure farmers maximise production per unit area,” she said.
Livestock and Meat Advisory Council executive administrator Dr Chrispen Sukume said farmers must move away from primitive ways of production.
“In the past, farmers would just keep older animals, but now we urge them to take livestock production as a business; keeping only productive livestock and eliminate those that have passed their stage of production,” said Dr Sukume.
Chief director of the Research and Specialist Services Directorate in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Dr Dumisani Kutywayo said growing the national herd is important to meet national nutritional demand.
“Sustainable farming practices have been prioritised, including regenerative farming practices in livestock systems.
“This may include promoting rotational grazing, improved feed management and efficient use of resources like water and energy,” said Dr Kutywayo.
Methane reduction, Dr Kutywayo added, is also possible through methane capture technologies, dietary adjustments to reduce methane production in ruminant animals and improving manure management systems.
Director of livestock research in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Mr Andrew Chamisa said his department will ensure the country meets its needs sustainably.
“Through the use of alternative feeds and feed additives, we reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with livestock production.
“This may include exploring options like algae-based feeds, insect protein and feed additives that aid in methane reduction,” said Mr Chamisa.
There is a need, he said, for research and innovation to foster the development of new technologies, tools and practices that lead to more sustainable livestock systems.
The 2023-2024 summer season started late because of the El Niño weather phenomenon.
This affected both water sources and pastures.
Over 8 000 cattle have reportedly died over the past three weeks due to adverse weather conditions.
Online Reporter