Government Unveils Plans for Livestock Recovery and Resilience in 2025

The Chief Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS), Mr. Leonard Munamati, shared the Ministry's strategies to enhance livestock production in the year 2025 and beyond. He stated that following the harsh impact of the El Niño-induced drought, which primarily affected the southern regions, the government implemented a range of measures that successfully protected the national herd, 5.7 million cattle. Remarkably, only 13,269 losses were recorded, showcasing the effectiveness of these measures.

Moving forward, Chief Director Munamati emphasized that the focus will be on developing drought- tolerant livestock breeds through climate smart breeding strategies to build resilience against dry conditions. He added that initiatives such as continued borehole drilling and establishment of drought mitigation centres will strengthen resilience in livestock production. He stressed that government will also promote household feed and fodder banks and foster public-private partnerships to boost investments in the sector. Capacity-building initiatives will equip farmers with skills to improve production and care for their livestock. This multifaceted approach underscores the Ministry's commitment to ensuring sustainable livestock growth.

Government Unveils Measures to Manage Livestock Diseases Amid Rainy Season

Government Unveils Measures to Manage Livestock Diseases Amid Rainy Season Dr. Pious Makaya, Chief Director of the Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS), outlined crucial measures for farmers to manage livestock effectively during the 2024/2025 rainy season, as animal diseases are generally expected to rise.

DISEASES RISKS

Farmers should anticipate a general surge in:

1. Internal and external parasite infestations

2. Footborne diseases

3. Soil-borne like:

Anthrax

Blackleg

Gall sickness

January disease

Heartwater

Redwater

KEY INTERVENTIONS

1. Enhanced Disease Surveillance

Directorate of Veterinary Services (DVS)has decentralized diagnostic laboratories to provincial levels to improve disease monitoring. Plans are underway to extend these services to districts.

2. Extension and Advisory Services

Farmers are advised to deworm their animals, but avoid dosing cattle in poor condition due to drought effects. Veterinary public health operations, including inspection and certification of abattoirs and milk plants, will be intensified to curb footborne diseases.

3. Vaccination and Pest Control

Farmers are encouraged to vaccinate against blackleg, lumpy skin disease, and other tickborne diseases. The Tsetse Department will enhance operations in infested areas. Weekly dipping of cattle, following standard procedures, is vital.

4. Complementary Strategies

In case of disease outbreaks despite dipping, farmers should consult laboratories for confirmation and arrange vaccinations.