mbulelo smpofu
Harare Bureau
Demand for rabbit meat, rated as the healthiest white meat globally, in Zimbabwe continues to surge, with monthly consumption now estimated upwards of 10 tonnes.
To address the growing appetite for rabbit meat, the Zimbabwe Commercial Rabbit Breeders Association (Zicorba) said its partners would implement innovative measures such as contract growing schemes, accessible loan facilities for farmers, and rabbit production programmes in schools and colleges.
The introduction of artificial insemination programmes is also expected to further enhance farmers’ productivity, ensuring that supply can meet the burgeoning demand, Zicorba president Mr Regis Nyamakanga said in his New Year message to stakeholders.
“Zimbabwe has also taken the lead in value addition, with products such as rabbit burgers, pies, samoosas, polony, sausages and biltong gaining popularity in local markets.
“These innovations highlight the creativity and dedication of our industry players.
“At the same time, Zicorba is exploring collaborations with insurance providers to safeguard rabbit farmers from potential risks and with experts to develop local vaccines to mitigate disease challenges,” he said.
Looking ahead, Mr Nyamakanga announced plans for a Rabbit Expo, a platform where farmers from Zimbabwe and neighbouring countries will showcase their breeds and exchange knowledge.
This initiative will not only strengthen regional co-operation but also highlight our commitment to excellence and growth.
“With an estimated 15 000 rabbit farmers and the potential to grow the industry from its current US$2,5 million valuation to a US$25 million enterprise in short to medium term and US$100 million in the long term, we are on the brink of unprecedented success,” Mr Nyamakanga said.
He noted that achieving this goal “requires our collective hard work, focus, dedication, innovation, and collaboration”.
Over the past five years, Zicorba has led the transformation of rabbit farming in Zimbabwe from a backyard activity into a vibrant and lucrative business enterprise.
“Today, our nation stands proudly as one of the leading rabbit producers in Africa, a testament to our shared vision and relentless efforts,” Mr Nyamakanga said.
He added that the domestic rabbit industry was poised to play a significant role in the growth of Zimbabwe’s small livestock sector.
With a target to uplift the livelihoods of 1,8 million households over the next five years, he said the country was on the right path to improving lives, creating jobs, and fostering economic growth.
This is particularly important, he said, for youth and women in rural, urban, and peri-urban areas, where opportunities in rabbit farming are unlocking pathways to prosperity.
Siphakeme .Mnindwa
