Government is targeting the vaccination of one million cattle against anthrax in 2027 as part of measures to protect the national herd from disease outbreaks during the anticipated dry 2026/27 agricultural season.
The livestock health intervention is part of a broader drought mitigation programme that includes securing water and feed for animals, controlling ticks and strengthening drought mitigation centres.
According to a report presented at the Provincial Working Party Official Meeting on Agriculture held in Kadoma last week, Village Business Units (VBUs) with functioning water points are being designated as livestock drought mitigation centres.
The centres will be equipped with livestock watering troughs and feed to help farmers cope with potential water and feed shortages.
The National Tick Control Programme will also utilise 4 212 dip tanks, spray races, Ward Drought Mitigation Centres and pour-on acaricides to control ticks and reduce tick-borne diseases.
The report indicated that livestock body condition was currently rated between three and four nationally, considered satisfactory, although available water was estimated to last only five to six months.
Grazing distances are also becoming a concern in Mashonaland East, Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, Midlands and Masvingo, where livestock are travelling between two and four kilometres to access grazing.
National feed requirements for cattle considered at risk stand at about 404 730 tonnes, against available feed of 261 120 tonnes, leaving a shortfall of approximately 143 610 tonnes.
Government is expected to provide about 156 176 tonnes, with farmers and development partners expected to meet the balance.
A national mapping exercise is underway to identify existing silage stocks and facilitate redistribution from areas with surpluses to those facing shortages. Wheat stover is also being baled, with baler sets available in all provinces.
Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North and Mashonaland East have up to eight baler sets each.
Mashonaland West has achieved 129.6 percent of its hay-baling target, while Manicaland and Matabeleland North have achieved 27.2 percent and 17.2 percent respectively.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland West Dr Marian Chombo said the province was strengthening drought preparedness through the establishment and rehabilitation of mitigation centres.
She said 86 out of a targeted 156 centres had been established, with efforts continuing to improve the remaining facilities.
