Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Faith Ndlovu, Sunday News Reporter
HEAVY rainfall that continues to pound Matabeleland region has significantly boosted crop yield prospects and reduced cattle mortality rates according to local farming experts, who welcome the relief after a prolonged dry spell.
Livestock was impacted by the El Niño-induced dry conditions resulting in a considerable shortage of pasture and reduced water availability for livestock, leading to cattle deaths that derailed the country’s efforts at growing the national herd.
In Zimbabwe, over 50 000 drought-related cattle deaths were reported and over 1.4 million cattle were reported as being at high risk of drought conditions and death due to lack of pasture and water.
Mr Obert Chinhamo, a prominent stud breeder from Esigodini in Umzingwane District, Matabeleland said the current rains played a big part in improving pasture availability in most parts of the province.
“Water is the most important nutrient for cattle. It accounts for 50 to 80 percent of an animal’s weight and is involved in every physiological process. Lack of adequate pastures and depleted water sources culminated in increased cattle poverty deaths in Matabeleland South,” he said.
Mr Chinhamo said the recent rains have brought a renewed sense of hope to the farming community, particularly livestock farmers who form the bulk of the farming community in the Matabeleland region.
“After months of dry and barren landscapes, the sight of lush green pastures and replenished water sources is a welcome relief. Our cattle are now able to graze on nutritious grass, which will improve their overall health and productivity,” he added.
He highlighted that the rains have also reduced the reliance on expensive feed supplements, which has eased the financial burden on the farming community.
“The improved pasture conditions have reduced the risk of soil erosion and land degradation, which is essential for maintaining the long-term sustainability of our farms,” he added.
He further explained that they are also optimistic that the rains will lead to an increase in livestock reproduction rates, as the improved nutrition and health of their animals will enhance their fertility.
“This, in turn, will enable us to rebuild our herds and increase our productivity, which is critical for the growth and development of our farming businesses,” Mr Chinhamo said.
Mr Chinhamo said they are particularly excited about the impact the rains brought to the breeding program.
“With improved pasture conditions, the females will be in better condition for breeding, which should lead to higher conception rates and stronger, healthier calves. This is critical for the business, as we are always striving to produce the best possible genetics for the clients,” he said.
“The rains have brought a sense of rejuvenation and renewal to our farming community,” he said.
“We are grateful for this blessing and are committed to making the most of this opportunity to rebuild and strengthen our farming operations,” Mr Chinhamo added.
Mr Linos Ncube of Mangwe District said the rains played an important part in improving grazing, a situation that will likely curb cattle poverty deaths that was now rampant in the province.
“However, we are still faced with a situation where some of the water sources in some areas have not received significant inflows,” he said, adding that he hoped that the rains would continue so that pastures would be rejuvenated.
Mr Ncube said this turnaround has far-reaching implications for their community.
“Many of our farmers rely on cattle for ploughing and other farm work. With their strength and health restored, these animals can now pull an ox-drawn plough with ease, enabling our farmers to till their land and plant their crops,” Mr Ncube said.
