Story by Providence Maraneli
MATABELELAND SOUTH – COMMERCIAL livestock farmers have noted the need to continuously boost the national herd and the quality of local beef for the export market.
While similarities can be drawn from Nicaragua and Zimbabwe’s livestock sectors, with the Central American country’s cattle herd hovering above 5.8 million, much like Zimbabwe’s 5.6 million, there is disparity in terms of quality.
In 2023, Nicaragua produced more than 150 tonnes of beef with its cattle weighing an average 250 kilogrammes, which is more than the Zimbabwean communal herd that averages between 160 and 200 kilogrammes.
As such, the two countries can yield positive results for Zimbabwe, which is on a drive to reach a US$3.4 billion valuation by this year.
“Our communal herd averages only 150 to 180 kg. Stud breeders must provide superior genetics to enhance herd frames. Nicaragua’s herd, similar in size to ours, demonstrates higher quality. We need to collaborate and learn from them,” the owner of Biano Simmentals, Mr Obert Chinhamo said.
Nicaragua Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Ms Nadeska Cuthbert, who toured Biano Simmentals farm in Esigodini, Matabeleland South province, emphasised the need for close cooperation between Zimbabwe and her country to achieve the national visions.
“I am impressed by this farm’s efforts. We have spent over 20 years strengthening our livestock sector. Zimbabwean farmers like Mr Chinhamo can benefit from our experience. Exchange programmes in disease control and export enhancement would be invaluable.”
For a province that has bounced back better from a devastating elnino-induced drought that killed more than 35 000 cattle, collaboration between Nicaragua and farmers from the province may further strengthen the provincial position as a livestock hub.
“We are happy as a province that we had this visit and we want to continue engaging those partners who have made it so that we improve our herd. We know the province has the potential to attract good breeds and we want to work on improving communal breeds so that we achieve our vision,” ARDAS’s Matabeleland South director, Mrs Shupikai Sibanda said.
Zimbabwe is aiming to grow the national herd to six million cattle, up from 5.6 million with a focus on expanding the overall livestock population.
