Report flags cattle woes in communal beef sector

A new government agricultural strategy has identified a lack of commercial focus and poor breeding practices as major obstacles to beef production in Zimbabwe's communal areas. The blueprint notes that approximately ninety percent of the national cattle herd is located in these regions, where production systems are often characterized by widespread inbreeding and poorly defined breeding programs. This challenges the sector's significant contribution to the agricultural economy and rural livelihoods.

The government plans to address these issues by introducing elite indigenous breeds and promoting artificial insemination to improve herd quality. The strategy also emphasizes climate-proofing measures, including household fodder production and pasture development, to counter cyclical drought impacts. Additional interventions include ensuring the functionality of thousands of dip tanks and establishing Ward Marketing Centres to create more transparent and fair cattle trading for communal farmers.

The strategy further proposes investigating livestock-based credit schemes and commercial grazing systems. It identifies the revival of the Cold Storage Company as crucial for strengthening the overall beef marketing system and unlocking greater value from the national herd.