The ManicaPost
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
GOVERNMENT has issued a stern directive compelling all farmers to brand their cattle in a bid to enhance livestock management practices and mitigate against theft and disease control.
The move comes as part of the ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Lands, Agricultures, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development to modernise agricultural practices and safeguard the interests of farmers.
Chief Director for Veterinary Services Department (VSD), Dr Pious Makaya said cattle branding is a crucial aspect for livestock identification and traceability.
He said it is part of a broader strategy to modernise the agricultural sector and promote sustainable farming practices.
Dr Makaya said cattle branding is mandatory, and farmers should act accordingly.
“Farmers should know that cattle branding is mandatory with the exception of pedigree and dairy cattle. According to the Animal Health (Livestock and Identification) (Cattle) Regulations of 2003, all cattle above six months must be branded to indicate their dip tank or farm of origin. Branding serves the purpose of identifying the dip tank or the farm of origin for each cattle,” he said.
Dr Makaya said through the implementation of a standardised branding system, farmers can significantly reduce the risk of cattle theft, facilitate easier identification in case of loss or straying, and contribute to disease control measures.
He also urged farmers to apply for personal and farm specific brands through the Registrar General’s Office.
Cattle branding does, not only serve as a deterrent to theft, but also facilitates prompt action in the event of disease outbreaks.
“Cattle branding is a critical component in solving disputes, curbing stock theft, controlling cattle movements and reducing the spread of diseases from one area to another. The presence of visible brand marks on cattle is a good sign recognised in disease control that also facilitates access to the market,” he said.
“Cattle branding is a fundamental practice that, not only protects the interest of farmers, but also enhances the overall health and productivity of livestock. It provides a permanent and visible means of identifying cattle, enabling authorities to trace ownership and track movements. By ensuring that cattle are properly identified and accounted for, authorities can better regulate livestock markets, enforce health and safety standards, and support the growth of the country’s livestock industry,” he said.
Dr Makaya said Government is committed to providing support and guidance to farmers on proper branding techniques and procedures.
“We understand that not all farmers have the necessary resources or knowledge to implement cattle branding effectively.
“As such, we are working closely with agricultural extension officers to offer training workshops and demonstrations to educate farmers on the importance of branding and assist them in adopting best practices,” he said.
Dr Makaya said the Department of Veterinary Services is working closely with the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s Anti-Stocktheft Unit, making it easier for the issuance of police clearance forms and cattle movement permits.
“Instead of livestock owners collecting the police clearance forms first and the DVS permit later, it was agreed that the permit should be issued first before the clearance form. This was agreed to avoid situations where farmers move cattle with the police clearance forms only,” he said.
Dr Makaya said his department will also update all stock cards across all provinces.
He said the Department of Veterinary Services will continue to use free mass vaccinations against foot and mouth and anthrax diseases, and ensure that all animals are registered in the stock cards.
