Farmers and livestock producers attending the ongoing Livestock Conference at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, Bulawayo commended Government for organising a platform that allows stakeholders to exchange ideas and craft solutions aimed at improving productivity.
At the sidelines of the event, Vice President of the Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union, Winston Babbage, applauded Government for convening the conference.
“This event is very important for us as farmers because it brings everyone together to discuss real issues affecting livestock production.
We are sharing ideas and coming up with solutions that will help us improve livestock genetics, especially through Artificial Insemination, which is key to increasing productivity and improving the quality of our herds,” said Babbage.
Zimbabwe Association of Dairy Farmers Matabeleland representative, Agnes Kwenda, also welcomed the conference, saying it was encouraging to see increased participation of youths and women in the dairy value chain.
“The involvement of young people and women in the dairy sector is growing, and this is very important for the future of our industry.
Their participation is helping to revitalise production and strengthen household incomes, especially in rural communities where dairy farming is a key source of livelihood,” she said.
Kwenda further commended Government for rolling out the Presidential Silage Input Scheme, which she described as a timely intervention addressing feed shortages.
“The Presidential Silage Input Scheme is assisting farmers to prepare adequate feed for their livestock, particularly during the dry season when grazing becomes limited.
This programme is improving livestock nutrition, increasing milk yields and reducing production costs for farmers,” she said.
Cattle rancher Hammond Hlanyo said the conference was helping farmers to adopt modern ranching practices that improve efficiency and profitability.
“As cattle ranchers, we are learning new ways of managing our herds, improving breeding systems and ensuring that we produce quality beef that can compete on both local and export markets.
Such engagements give us confidence that the livestock sector is moving in the right direction with Government support,” said Hlanyo.
The Livestock Conference has brought together farmers, agricultural experts, Government officials and industry players to discuss strategies for strengthening livestock value chains, improving productivity and supporting rural incomes in line with national agricultural development goals.
