Online Reporter
Precious Manomano
Herald Reporter
A TOTAL of 1 628 323 million cattle have so far been branded countrywide, representing 81,4percent percent of the annual target of 2 million as the Government scales up measures to curb unnecessary losses through stock theft.
This achievement demonstrates significant progress towards meeting the yearly goal, with about 400 000 cattle remaining to be branded to reach the targeted milestone.
Government commenced cattle branding last month to reduce stock theft and control the spread of diseases in the country.
Branding, also known as umtshiso, is a process whereby farmers get a unique mark for their herd from the Registrar-General’s Office as a way of reducing stock theft.
In Zimbabwe, branding serves the purpose of identifying the dip tank or farm of origin for cattle that are over six months old.
Department of Veterinary Field Services director Dr Jairus Machakwa said they are on course to surpass the target.
“With setting in of winter period, the programme is now proceeding at full throttle. The aim is to have all cattle six months and older, showing visible brands. That is what we are aiming to achieve. The response has been remarkably positive, with an impressive 81.4percent of our annual target already reached. This overwhelming success highlights the effectiveness of our efforts and demonstrates strong cooperation from the communities.”
Dr Machakwa said winter periods presents an ideal opportunity for branding livestock, adding that the colder temperatures significantly diminish the activity of flies.
“This reduction in fly presence and activity greatly lowers the risk of wound infections and myiasis, ensuring that animals can heal more effectively without the threat of these complications,”he said.
He said local veterinary officers are carrying out community branding campaigns to inform cattle owners about when and where to bring all their cattle over six months old for branding.
This includes cattle that have never been branded and those without visible brands.
The Department of Veterinary Field Services has veterinary extension officers across the country, in all communal areas and smallholder farms, A1 and A2 farms.
He said the network of veterinary extension officers mobilises the farmers to ensure all animal health interventions are implemented throughout the country.
