The government has made significant strides in mitigating the devastating effects of drought on the country’s livestock.
By distributing over 6,000 metric tonnes of silage and water, more than 101,000 livestock have been saved from death. This initiative forms part of a broader program to establish Ward Drought Mitigation Centres in all 1,620 wards, aimed at providing critical support to vulnerable communities.
In particular, the government has prioritized regions most affected by drought, with Treasury availing resources to set up 1,035 Ward Drought Mitigation Centres in agro-ecological regions 4 and 5. These centres will play a key role in coordinating relief efforts and ensuring that farmers in drought-stricken areas receive timely assistance.
In the past, rural farmers were often at the mercy of unscrupulous butchers, who exploited their desperation by purchasing livestock for as little as $30 per head. These butchers would then fatten the animals and sell them at substantial profits. Mbokodo Butchery in Bulawayo was particularly notorious for taking advantage of rural farmers in this manner. The government’s efforts have provided much-needed relief, particularly in dry regions such as Matabeleland and Masvingo Provinces, where many farmers had been previously vulnerable to such exploitation.
The government’s drought mitigation strategy is anchored on two key pillars. The first is the establishment of Ward Drought Mitigation Centres across all wards, ensuring that vulnerable communities are supported in a targeted and effective manner. The second pillar is the coordination of various actors, including development partners, under the Drought Action Committee. This collaborative effort ensures the efficient use of scarce resources and prevents duplication of efforts.
These initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to safeguarding the livestock sector, which is critical to the country’s food security and economic stability. By providing targeted support, the government is helping to mitigate the impact of drought on rural livelihoods and ensuring the sustainability of the livestock industry.
