The ManicaPost
Blessing Rwizi Post Correspondent
THE Department of Livestock Production and Development (DLPD) has urged farmers in Manicaland to commence animal feed stocking before the inception of the dry season.
Acting LPD officer for Manicaland, Mr Joshua Zveutete said the move should be taken to avoid losing animals due to lack of sufficient pastures.
“There is a lot of grass following the rains received in most parts of the province since last month and this is now the opportunity for farmers to effectively prepare supplementary feed and water sources before the commencement of the dry season.
“Most smallholders face difficulties in making hay due to lack of equipment, fuel and transport but they should seek other alternatives to cut grass while it is still nutritious and dry it under proper conditions. Feed stocking ensures that your animals are in good body condition throughout the year and that also ensures that they produce a calf at least once a year because they will always be on heat,” said Mr Zvoutete.
He also said farmers should take preventive measures against worm infestation since there were too many water bodies during the rainy season.
“During the rainy season, there are so many water bodies and animals usually feed off the green grass. Chances are high that animals catch diseases so farmers should ensure that their animals are dosed against worm infestation from those water bodies and green grass. Farmers should consult livestock and veterinary extension officers on how to doze their animals against these diseases,” he said.
Provincial Beef and Range Specialist, Mr Nomatter Manunure also urged farmers to prepare standard cattle handling facilities during the rainy season.
“Farmers should make sure that their cattle do not sleep in muddy kraals to avoid foot-rot. This is also the time that animals should gain more weight so that they will be able to resist the effects of winter. Besides that, this is the right time for those who want to destock their animals because they are in good weight, rather than selling them during the dry season where they may have lost so much weight,” said Mr Manunure.
He added that calves should be kept under roof as they can be easily affected by diseases during the rainy season.
