Government has urged livestock stakeholders to boost value addition, improve logistics, and expand market access, stressing that a stronger, more efficient sector is essential for economic stability and national growth, officials said at today’s Livestock Conference, in Bulawayo.
These remarks were delivered on behalf of the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, Judith Ncube, by the Director of Economic Development in the Minister’s office, Simon Saunyama.
In her address, Minister Ncube emphasized that the government must balance economic stability with the growth of productive sectors such as agriculture and livestock.
“The Government has the responsibility of balancing economic stability with development, and to understand where we are going as a country we must acknowledge that agriculture and livestock production form part of the life of our nation,” she said.
She noted that Bulawayo and surrounding areas had historically played a key role in livestock production, adding that efficient logistics systems were critical for the movement and marketing of cattle and small stock.
“We cannot speak of rising in the region and globally without the necessary logistics.
This city and its surrounding communities have built strong systems for the distribution of cattle and small stock, and such structures must continue to be strengthened if the sector is to grow,” she added.
Minister Ncube said the conference provided an important platform for dialogue on emerging challenges, including youth participation, animal diseases and climate-related pressures affecting agriculture.
“The format of this forum is commendable because it provides a platform for leaders and stakeholders to exchange ideas on timely issues such as youth participation, health concerns and climate change.
However, discussion alone is not enough, we must move towards practical solutions that benefit our citizens,” she noted.
Speaking at the same conference, the President of the Bulawayo Agricultural Society, Promise Ncube, said value addition and livestock beneficiation were key to unlocking the full potential of the sector.
“We must bridge the gap between the farm gate and the global market through value addition and beneficiation.
Producing livestock alone is not enough we must process, improve quality and ensure our products can compete internationally,” he said.
Ncube encouraged the private sector to invest in processing and marketing infrastructure, while urging Government to maintain supportive policies.
“The private sector has a critical role to play in developing the livestock industry, and Government must continue implementing policies that protect livestock production, improve animal health systems and support farmers.
If we work together, we can transform the livestock sector into a strong contributor to the national economy,” he added
Zimbabwe is promoting livestock beneficiation, value addition and improved market systems as part of broader efforts to grow the agricultural sector, increase exports and improve rural incomes under the national development agenda.
