Walter Mswazie
CHIVI – SUGARCANE farmers in Chiredzi have started diversifying to livestock production in support of the government programmes such as the Command Livestock which seek to increase productivity in the agricultural sector and revive national economy, an official has said.
The $10 million Command Livestock programme was launched in Gwanda this year by President Mnangagwa.
Zimbabwe Sugarcane Farmers Association chairman Mr Admore Hwarare said the farmers had ventured into cattle fattening projects and that Tongaat Huletts had since offered 3000 cattle for the initiatives.
He said they (farmers) in the lowveld were supportive of government’s initiative towards increasing national cattle herd and had already hit the ground running.
He made the remarks last week on the sidelines of Zanu PF victory celebrations held for Chivi Rural District Council chairman, councilor Godfrey Mukungunugwa at Maramba primary school.
“There is a lot of potential in cattle farmers in Masvingo province given the availability of cattle feed such as molasses and cotton seed cakes. They should take advantage of available resources,” said Mr Harare.
“So far Tongaat Huletts Zimbabwe is offering 3000 cattle, both heifers and bulls.
“These are meant to support command livestock extensively so that we are able to resuscitate the Cold Storage Company “In addition, as sugarcane farmers (in the lowveld), we have more than
2 000 tonnes of molasses reserved for cattle feeding. Further to that, we can also provide cotton seed cakes which help dairy cattle improve milk yield. We have embarked on cattle fattening projects and we want to assist those farmers who have registered under command livestock”.
He also called on farmers in Chivi district to take participate in various income generating projects especially livestock production schemes.
He said those interested in command livestock should consider erecting feedlots where their cattle would be fed and allowed to breed.
“There is great potential in cattle farmers and I am inviting those interested in the command livestock initiative to start building feedlots in their respective areas. We will supply molasses for the animals’ feed,” said Mr Hwarare.
Feeding molasses to animals improves digestion of pastures or hay, increases milk production, help maintain body condition and appetite and result in less feed waste.