The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Matabeleland South Province, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe, today officially commissioned Gali Diptank in Ward 24, Matobo District, marking a significant milestone in strengthening livestock health, disease prevention and rural development.

In his keynote address, Honourable Nguluvhe emphasised that the rehabilitation of the diptank is a demonstration of Government's commitment to safeguarding the national cattle herd and improving rural livelihoods in line with National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and Vision 2030, under the leadership of His Excellency, President Cde Dr E.D. Mnangagwa.

The Minister highlighted that farmers previously travelled long distances to access dipping facilities, exposing their cattle to tick-borne diseases such as Redwater, Heartwater and Gall Sickness.

He commended Matobo Rural District Council, the Department of Veterinary Services and the Gali community for their collaborative efforts in rehabilitating the facility through devolution funding and community participation.

Honourable Nguluvhe urged farmers to ensure 100% compliance with dipping schedules, safeguard the infrastructure and adhere to lawful cattle movement procedures to prevent the spread of livestock diseases.

He further emphasised that healthy livestock contributes to household food security, wealth creation, rural industrialisation and economic growth.

The commissioning ceremony included a tour of the facility, demonstrations of cattle dipping, entertainment by local schoolchildren and presentations from veterinary officials and farmers.

Among those in attendance were the District Development Coordinator, Matobo RDC officials, Provincial Veterinary Director Dr E. Mdlongwa, AGRITEX officials, traditional leaders, councillors, Government departments, the Gali Dip Committee, farmers, women, youth and community members.

The Minister concluded by reaffirming Government's commitment to leaving no one and no place behind in the national development agenda.

"Gali Igeziwe! Matobo Ithoniwe! Zimbabwe Iyaqhuba! Vision 2030 Tichasvika!"