The ManicaPost
Lovemore Kadzura-Rusape Correspondent
THERE is increased demand for rabbit meat on both local and international markets and local farmers have been urged to increase productivity to meet the demand.
Makoni Rabbit Farmers’ Association chairman, Mr Garisanai Mudzingwa, has encouraged farmers to venture into rabbit farming.
In Zimbabwe, rabbit farming is mainly done for family consumption and Mr Mudzingwa is among the few Manicaland farmers rearing rabbits at a commercial level.
Due to changing eating habits mainly driven by health reasons, rabbit meat is now among the most sort after protein sources.
Apart from being a sumptuous delicacy, rabbit meat is very rich in protein and is very low in fats, hence the increased demand.
“The demand for rabbit meat the world over has peaked in the last five years, yet farmers in this province are still rearing rabbits at subsistence level,” said Mr Mudzingwa.
“People are now health conscious and are so particular about what they eat. Rabbit meat is very nutritious, it is rich in protein. Leading hotels, restaurants and the general populace all need the meat but the market sometimes cannot cope with the demand.
“There is a huge gap to fill. One can choose to be a breeder and concentrate on supplying breeds to farmers. Others can rear the rabbits, which is very rewarding,” he said.
Mr Mudzingwa said commercial breed farmers can acquire Californians, New Zealand whites, Chinchillas and several other crosses for their farming ventures.
Mr Mudzingwa has 30 years experience in rabbit breeding, including seven years working with top breeders in South Africa.
He said training of farmers is important as they migrate from subsistence to commercial rabbit farming.
“Most rabbit farmers are in the rural areas and it’s advisable to start small and expand using available resources. Those in towns can utilise backyards to rear rabbits profitably,” said Mr Mudzingwa.
Commercial rabbit farming does not require a lot of capital and land.
