Staff Reporter

Zimbabwe’s ambitious plan to rebuild its national livestock herd has received a significant boost, courtesy of the Republic of Indonesia, which donated over 1,000 straws of semen from superior cattle breeds to local stud breeders.

The donation, which also includes 200 Holstein dairy breed straws, follows a training program where Zimbabwean livestock experts were equipped with advanced skills in Indonesia.

In an interview with the media, a member of the Biano Simmentals, Obert Chinhamo expressed optimism about the development.

“This donation will go a long way in reviving our sector. The breeds provided have the potential to produce resilient and superior livestock. Given the losses we have incurred due to drought, this support will help accelerate our recovery process,” he said.

The consignment includes semen from Brahman, Red Angus, Simmental, and Limousin breeds, all renowned for their hardiness and productivity. The contribution is expected to expand Zimbabwe’s genetic pool, a critical step in producing more robust and efficient livestock.

A veterinary research officer at Mazowe Bull Centre and Semen Processing Laboratory, Dr Biko Gadaga emphasized the importance of the donation.

“We have identified farmers who will benefit from these superior genetics. Our ultimate goal is food security, and these new genetics will certainly enhance productivity,” he noted.

Matopos Research Institute’s Chief Research Officer, Givious Sisito echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for genetic diversity.

“To make better selections for genetic evaluation, we require a broader genetic pool. The donation provides an opportunity to rebuild herds decimated by drought and diseases,” he said.

This collaboration comes at a critical time when Zimbabwe is implementing various strategies to revitalize its livestock sector. Artificial insemination, enabled by such donations, is set to play a pivotal role in ensuring the recovery and sustainability of the national herd.