Online Reporter
Edgar Vhera
Livestock farmers across the country are investing in superior breeds to maximise profits, marking a shift from treating farming as a hobby to embracing it as a commercial venture.
Superior livestock breeds command higher prices on the market, enabling farmers to increase earnings and improve their livelihoods.
Livestock Farmers union (LFU) chairman, Mr Sifiso Sibanda, said the national focus was now on improving breed quality.
“The thrust among farmers has naturally changed as they seek the best breeds that fetch the highest prices. Be it the sale of heifers, bulls or weights on the market for slaughter, it all comes back to breeds.
“We have seen farmers buying quality bulls and rams, with some opting for doper breeds of sheep, among others. Focusing on commercial breeds is a transformative stage for farmers, and we are delighted about it,” Mr Sibanda said.
Farmers are prioritising self-sufficiency, refining breeding practices and targeting market demands.
“A recent cattle bull sale in Harare saw local farmers buying top breeds to improve genetics. These sales are crucial in taking control of this sector,” Mr Sibanda said.
He emphasised the need for communal farmers to access superior bulls, as most had not yet adopted artificial insemination.
“Providing suitable bulls for their regions will transform the national herd into a predominantly commercial breed,” he said.
Mr Sibanda applauded the Government’s successful implementation of the Presidential Tick Grease programme, which reduced animal mortality rates.
The programme, aimed at controlling tick-borne diseases, provided tick grease to one million households, improving animal health and productivity.
Cattle mortality dropped from 49 percent in 2022 to 8 percent last year.
