daniel chigunwe
Ashton Mutyavaviri
Farmers should take livestock insurance to enable compensation in case of theft.
Stock theft in on the increase and farmers risk losing draught power in the summer season.
Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU) secretary general Mr Paul Zakariya yesterday said livestock insurance is critical.
“Farmers must know now that insurance is not a waste of money but it’s an investment for future wealth. Farmers must brand their cattle for easy identification,” he said.
He urged farmers to unite and form community neighbourhood watch committees to safeguard their livestock, especially during the night.
“We are observing rampant mushrooming of butcheries in cities where some meat is coming onto the market without certification and documentation, exposing consumers to diseases. “We need all stakeholders to partake in every aspect to safe guard our livestock,” he explained
Mr Zakariya urged the Department of Veterinary Services and local authorities to work hand in glove in monitoring butcheries and meat sources.
Meanwhile, farmers are worried about the sharp increase in cattle rustling which has left them counting their losses.
Marondera communal farmer Mr Tapiwa Tumbwane said farmers were living in fear that their cattle could be stolen any minute.
“My neighbour lost two cattle last night. It is an on-going epidemic that has anguished many farmers. It has been five months now since cattle rustling started with the thieves coming during the night,” he said.
Another farmer in Chemagora area in Gokwe South district, Mr Zvenyika Tawengwa also shared his heart-wrenching experience on cattle theft.
Farmers are demanding swift action from Government to address this growing crisis. They were urging law enforcement agents to increase efforts and patrols and establish specialised units.
“We made a police report but we were urged to consider night patrols and take turns to guard. We are also calling for stricter penalties and harsher sentences for individuals involved in these criminal activities,” he added.
Cattle farming plays a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector providing livelihoods for many communities and contributing significantly to the country’s economy. Livestock production plays an important role in the social, cultural and economic environment of Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe relies heavily on agriculture, and the loss of livestock disrupts the supply chain, affecting meat production, dairy products, and the livelihoods of those involved in related industries.
Online Reporter