Online Reporter
Felistas Tavarera
THE Government has launched an initiative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the livestock sector and projects a seven percent reduction by 2030, as it moves to mitigate climate change challenges through sustainable agricultural practices.
The Zimbabwe livestock sector mitigation assessment stakeholder engagement workshop organised by the Department of Livestock Research in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development in collaboration with New Zealand’s Ministry of Primary Industries got underway in Mazowe yesterday.
Speaking during the workshop, Department of Livestock Research deputy director, Mr Andrew Chamisa said the Government would implement a range of sustainable livestock production practices to achieve the emission reduction target.
“The livestock sector is a crucial component of Zimbabwe’s agriculture industry, contributing to food and nutrition security at both household and national levels, however, it is also a significant source of methane emissions with cattle being a major contributor.
“To achieve the emission reduction target, the Government will roll out a range of measures that include good agricultural practices such as regenerative waste management, improved feeding, breeding, and health management. The Government will also support research and innovation to develop new technologies and practices for sustainable livestock production,” he said.
Additionally, the Government will promote the development of alternative feeds and feed additives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Education and outreach programmes will also be implemented to educate farmers, livestock producers and stakeholders about climate-smart practices and sustainable farming methods.
The Government is also emphasising the need for a conducive policy environment to support the adoption of sustainable practices in the livestock sector and this includes providing incentive regulations that encourage farmers and livestock producers to adopt climate-smart practices.
“We need to adopt sustainable practices to reduce methane emissions from the livestock sector and we are committed to rolling them out in the livestock sector to reduce emissions and promote food security,” added Mr Chamisa.
This is expected to spawn numerous benefits that include improved food security, increased agricultural productivity and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. As Zimbabwe works towards achieving its emission reduction target, stakeholders are encouraged to adopt projects that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions reduction in the livestock sector.
“The Government aims to identify, implement and track interventions to meet national targets and report on progress. This will involve collaboration with farmers, livestock producers, researchers and other stakeholders to develop and implement effective strategies for reducing emissions,” explained Mr Chamisa.
He said as the country moved forward with its climate change mitigation efforts, it is clear that the livestock sector will play a critical role in the attainment of these sustainable development goals.
With the right policies and practices in place, Zimbabwe can reduce its greenhouse gas emissions while promoting food security and sustainable agricultural development, he noted.
The success of this initiative will depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders, including farmers, livestock producers, researchers and policymakers.
“The partnership is expected to enhance Zimbabwe’s technical expertise in preparing and reporting livestock emissions in greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and promoting sustainable livestock production systems. Zimbabwe and New Zealand’s collaborative efforts will go a long way in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the sector,” Mr Chamisa disclosed.
Mr Chamisa further observed that by adopting sustainable practices and promoting climate-smart agriculture, Zimbabwe can reduce its environmental footprint while promoting economic growth and development.
“The initiative is a significant step towards achieving a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future for the country.” he said.
