Harare, (New Ziana) -The Government of Zimbabwe is committed to support the growth of the livestock as it recognizes its contribution to socio-economic development. Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development deputy Minister Davis Marapira said this at the commissioning of the TSL/Agricura Animal Health Plant in the capital on Wednesday.
“The livestock sector not only contributes significantly to food security and nutrition but also serves as a vital source of income, employment, and socio-economic development its multifaceted contributions span across various sectors, permeating through rural and urban landscapes, and fostering resilience against economic shocks,” he said.
“As we unveil this state-of-the-art facility, let us also unveil our collective vision for Zimbabwe’s agricultural prosperity. Let us embrace the opportunities that lie ahead and work together to ensure that our livestock sector continues to thrive and contribute to the socio-economic development of Zimbabwe.”
Marapira said the new plant will directly support the government’s Livestock Recovery and Growth Plan the Agricultural Food Systems Transformation Strategy and the National Development Strategy (NDSI).
He said it will also help reduce the import bill for animal health products, thereby saving much-needed foreign currency for the country’s economy as the country is losing close to US$3 million importing such products from neighbouring Botswana.
It will also directly support the country’s Livestock Recovery and Growth Plan and the Agricultural Food Transformation Strategy said a senior Government official. Marapira said by inaugurating the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, the country is laying a firm foundation for a healthier, more resilient future for its livestock and its people.
He said the plant also symbolizes Government’s commitment to advancing veterinary medicine, enhancing disease control measures, and ultimately safeguarding the livelihoods of countless farmers across the nation.
Speaking at the same event TSL/Agricura chief executive officer Derek Odoteye said the new plant represents his company’s dedication to providing high quality products and services for the livestock sector, and the people who care for the animals.
He said the facility boasts of cutting-edge technology, rigorous quality control measures and a team of high skilled and experienced personnel dedicated to advancing the industry.
“This plant has a capacity to produce dips, doses and vaccines for the animal health sector and we are well positioned to make a meaningful contribution and a meaningful impact on this industry and our country in the region,” he said.
Also speaking at the same event, TSL board chairman, Anthony Mandiwanza said the new facility marks a significant milestone in Agricura’s journey and reaffirms TSL as a company committed to support the clarion call by Government to embrace import substitution as it spurs economic growth in agriculture, particularly in the livestock sector.
New Ziana
