Agriculture Minister Urges Communal Farmers to Keep Livestock Amid Hunger Crisis

Agriculture Minister Anxious Masuka has issued a warning to communal farmers in Zimbabwe, urging them not to sell their livestock amidst the current hunger crisis facing the country. During a recent session in the National Assembly, Masuka expressed concern over the increasing trend of farmers “de-stocking” their cattle due to fears of inadequate feed supplies. Masuka highlighted that in regions like Matabeleland South, there has been a significant rise in cattle sales, with quantities increasing by 43% from January to February. He emphasized the importance of preserving young cows and heifers for breeding purposes, urging farmers to only sell older livestock such as oxen and cows. Responding to inquiries from legislators about measures to support local cattle sales during disease outbreaks and livestock movement restrictions, Masuka assured that the government is implementing a food security program to provide households with essential food supplies until next year. He also mentioned plans to revive market days for cattle trading, previously managed by the Cold Storage Commission but now under district councils. Masuka emphasized the need to prevent livestock movement during bans to contain diseases, highlighting efforts to revive cattle trading activities in various regions like Zvishavane and Matabeleland South. The minister assured that the government is working to ensure that no one goes hungry and that farmers have access to necessary resources for sustainable agriculture practices.