Bulawayo, (New Ziana) –The livestock sector in Zimbabwe should urgently enhance its resilience against climate change and economic fluctuations to enable producers to adapt to changing conditions and maintain stable operations, an official has said.
Bulawayo Agricultural Society (BAS) president Promise Ncube said this on Thursday while making a presentation during the inaugural two-day Livestock Conference 2025 at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre (ZIEC).
The event is being held under the theme “Transforming Livestock Futures: Strategies for Resilience and Prosperity.”
The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company convened the conference in collaboration with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development and the Bulawayo Agricultural Society.
Key players in the livestock value chain are attending the conference to discuss industry trends, spotlight opportunities, address sector challenges, and explore strategies for sustainable growth and export development.
The livestock sector is vital to the Zimbabwean economy, supporting approximately 70 percent of the rural population and serving as a cornerstone of rural livelihoods.
Livestock farming provides essential income for families, contributes significantly to food security through diverse animal products, and holds deep cultural significance in traditional ceremonies.
Ncube highlighted the severe impact of climate change and economic challenges on the sector, particularly in the Matabeleland region.
“The El Nino-induced drought has significantly affected livestock in the Matabeleland region, resulting in reduced pasture availability and severe feed shortages. Many farmers are facing increased animal mortality rates, which exacerbates economic hardships in this area,” said Ncube.
He said ongoing disease outbreaks, such as tick-borne illnesses, which further strain livestock health and productivity are compounding these challenges.
Ncube emphasized the importance of environmentally friendly practices and responsible resource management to boost productivity while protecting ecosystems.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), climate change could reduce livestock productivity by up to 30% by 2050 if no adaptation measures are taken.
In that light, Ncube stressed the need for practices such as water management and drought-resistant feeds to help farmers maintain productivity, also highlighting the role of technology in transforming the sector.
“Integrating new technologies, including precision livestock farming and blockchain for supply chain transparency, can significantly enhance operational efficiency.
“Studies show that the adoption of digital tools can boost productivity by 15-20 percent, leading to better resource management, improved animal welfare, and sustainable farming methods,” Ncube said.
Ncube advocated for sustainable farming methods such as rotational grazing and integrated pest management to reduce environmental impact.
“Research indicates that sustainable practices can lead to a 20-30 percent increase in soil health and biodiversity, which are crucial for long-term agricultural viability,” he said.
He also called for strong policy frameworks to support sector growth, noting that effective policies can facilitate access to funding and resources.
“According to the World Bank, countries that implement comprehensive livestock policies see a 25 percent increase in sector resilience.
“Enhancing the skills and knowledge of farmers and stakeholders through training programs is equally essential. Programs focusing on best practices in livestock management can lead to a 40 percent increase in productivity among trained farmers, as shown by various agricultural extension studies,” Ncube said.
Ncube also highlighted the importance of expanding access to local and international markets to increase the profitability of livestock products.
New Ziana
