Farmers step up fodder production

LIVESTOCK farmers in Zimbabwe’s southern region are scaling up fodder production to improve feed security ahead of the dry season. Increased droughts, subsequent depletion of pastures and livestock diseases in recent years have increased the risk of livestock deaths, negatively impacting the economy. Agriculture is a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s economy and supports an extensive value chain.

In response to questions from this publication, Matabeleland South livestock specialist Mr Hatitye Zondai said it was encouraging that farmers in the region had embraced fodder production. He said the end of the rainy season presented the perfect time to harvest and preserve livestock feed for the lean months ahead. “Farmers are, indeed, adopting climate-smart practices, with over 60 percent already on board and the agriculture sector is projected to grow by 8 percent this year,” said Mr Zondai.

“What farmers can do is harvest and preserve through collecting crop residues, making hay and storing properly to retain nutrients. “On silage production, farmers should start harvesting crops like maize, sorghum or legumes for silage, harvesting at the right stage (milk dough or 50 percent flowering).”