Farmers Urged to Intensify Winter Livestock Protection Measures

Farmers across the country have been urged to adopt proactive livestock management strategies as winter grazing conditions continue to deteriorate, threatening animal health and productivity.

Speaking to farmers, ADAS Chief Director Mrs Magwenzi warned that natural pastures have become scarce and are of declining nutritional value, making supplementary feeding essential for sustaining healthy and productive livestock during the dry season.

She encouraged farmers to utilise feed reserves preserved during the summer months, including silage, baled hay and urea-treated crop stover, to cushion their herds against feed shortages and maintain optimal body condition.

Mrs Magwenzi also stressed the importance of ensuring a consistent supply of clean water near feeding points, noting that adequate hydration is critical in preventing weight loss and improving overall livestock performance during winter.

On animal health, she urged farmers to remain vigilant by maintaining regular dipping schedules and vaccination programmes to guard against disease outbreaks that could further weaken livestock already affected by harsh seasonal conditions.

She further advocated for climate-smart breeding practices that are suited to specific agro-ecological regions, saying such approaches are key to improving herd resilience and productivity in the face of increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

Mrs Magwenzi highlighted the role of Drought Mitigation Centres and Farmer Field Schools established in every ward, saying the initiatives are empowering farmers with practical knowledge and skills to strengthen livestock management and enhance resilience to climate-related shocks.

Recalling the devastating impact of previous droughts, which resulted in significant cattle losses across many communities, she called on farmers to plan ahead and implement proven mitigation measures to safeguard their livestock and protect their livelihoods.

Her remarks come at a time when strengthening livestock resilience has become increasingly important to sustaining agricultural production and supporting rural incomes amid changing climatic conditions.

By Witness A Phiri