Makwandara goat farmer sets sights on international markets

A goat farmer in Makwandara Ward in Hwange District says he is transforming livestock rearing from subsistence activity into a commercial enterprise, with ambitions to enter international markets. Ndlelende Ncube told CITE that his operation has grown steadily in recent years, providing a stable source of income and drawing interest from others in the community. Speaking while inspecting his herd, Ncube said he has focused on crossbreeding different goat varieties to improve quality, productivity and market value.

“Goat farming has become a source of livelihood for me. I rear goats on a commercial basis, and that has started bringing real money,” he said. “This is a business, and I want to take it to the next level.” He said his long-term goal is to supply markets beyond Zimbabwe, where demand for high-quality livestock can offer better returns for farmers who invest in genetics and animal health.

“I crossbreed a number of breeds to come up with suitable and high-quality goats,” he said. “When you have good breeds, the animals grow better and perform well. That makes the business more dependable.” Livestock is a key economic activity for many households in Makwandara Ward, particularly as erratic weather patterns affect crop production.

[paywall]

Local residents say Ncube’s approach stands out for its focus on structured management and commercial planning. Ncube said he has shifted from simply keeping goats to running what he describes as an organised enterprise. His daily routine includes selective breeding, monitoring growth rates and maintaining animal health to meet buyer expectations.

“The biggest thing is quality and consistency,” he said. “If you supply healthy animals that meet certain standards, people trust you. Once people trust you, the market opens up.” However, he acknowledged that exporting livestock requires compliance with strict veterinary and trade regulations.

“I want to penetrate the international market, but there are procedures to follow, including health requirements and documentation,” he said. “I’m learning and preparing because I don’t want to do business blindly.” Community members say his determination is significant at a time when economic pressures and unpredictable seasons are affecting rural livelihoods. For many families, livestock acts as a financial safety net when harvests fail.

[/paywall]