Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to improving livestock production by equipping rural farmers with practical skills in pen fattening, stockfeed production, and livestock disease control.
In Gutu District, Sonke Farm, owned by Mr Garikayi Mushava in the Zvavahera area under Chief Munyaradzi, is emerging as a model of livestock production. Its integrated farming approach is attracting interest from surrounding communities and learning institutions.
The farm, which produces its own stockfeed, has evolved into a training hub for local farmers as well as students from various tertiary institutions, who are gaining hands-on experience in modern livestock management practices.
“Here at Sonke farms, we focus on livestock farming, poultry and training of farmers. Our farm is not too big, but we are utilising the land that we have for livestock production. We do our own feed, and most of our herd we purchase locally as we empower the local community. Our market is in Harare and Gutu, and we are looking forward to opening your own butcheries. We have since turned this farm into a training ground for community and students on attachment,” Sonke Farm Manager Mr Gamalio Makuvara said.
Stakeholders in the livestock sector converged at the farm over the weekend for a Zimbabwe Beef Producers Society Field Day, where farmers were equipped with practical knowledge on feed formulation, pen fattening, and livestock disease management.
“I am happy to be part of this training programme, and we have learned a lot concerning livestock and poultry production. These are important skills for us as the rural populace for improved income,” Mrs Gowero Mubwandarikwa said.
“We have learned that we can utilise our own natural resources to come up with livestock feed. We learn a lot from this farm, and many community members are employed here,” Theresa Tavariswa said.
“I am a student from Bindura University, and I am on attachment here at Sonke farm. We are learning a lot about livestock farming, and I believe I have benefited a lot of k knowledge that will help me in my studies,” a student said.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Honourable Davis Marapira, reaffirmed government’s commitment to growing the national herd.
“Government remains committed to supporting farmers in order to grow the national herd and improve livestock productivity. We are encouraging farmers to adopt modern practices such as pen fattening, proper feed formulation, and effective disease control. Masvingo Province has great potential due to its grazing land and improved water availability, and we expect farmers to take advantage of these conditions. It is also important for farmers to manage their herds efficiently, including culling unproductive cattle, so that livestock farming becomes a viable and profitable business,” he said.
The country’s national herd currently stands at 5.7 million cattle, with government implementing several strategies to ensure they unlock the value of that herd.
