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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 24120, member: 2262"] Zimbabwe Deploys 3,000 Tractors to Combat Livestock Crisis. The Zimbabwean government has purchased 3,000 hay baling tractors for four livestock-focused provinces, aiming to protect and rebuild the national herd following widespread animal deaths from poverty and disease. The initiative addresses feed and water challenges in drought-affected regions. Zimbabwe lost over 50,000 cattle in 2024 due to El Niño-induced drought conditions, though the 2024/2025 rainy season has brought relief to farmers. From a previous total of 6 million cattle, the country suffered significant losses from poverty and disease. January disease (Theileriosis) emerged as the leading cause of disease-related deaths. The government has launched a nationwide assessment to count all domestic animals, including cattle, goats, sheep, and donkeys. Recent reports indicate increased calving rates in several districts this rainy season, suggesting potential growth in the national herd. Agriculture Minister Dr. Anxious Masuka announced new measures to combat livestock challenges during his visit to Hwange. "We are providing farmers with tick grease through the Presidential Bliss Tick Grease Programme for tick management. This enables us to begin restocking efforts alongside our artificial insemination project," Masuka said. The artificial insemination program uses improved indigenous breeds. The government plans to distribute the tractors across Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, Midlands, and Masvingo provinces. These machines will help harvest roadside hay in drought preparation. Livestock industry stakeholders have requested additional support for stock feed production, similar to existing crop sector subsidies. Some farmers reported losses of up to 100 cattle last year from poverty and disease. The Presidential Rural Development Programme focuses on community improvement through various initiatives. These include borehole drilling, dam construction, and the establishment of Village Business Units. The government has expanded its support to include household-level assistance. A three-year-old program provides 10 chickens to women as part of broader empowerment efforts. [/QUOTE]

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