The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland South Province, Hon. Albert Nguluvhe, today officiated as Guest of Honour at the Hlango Brahman Learning Day held at the homestead of Mr. and Mrs. Mahlangu in Ward 13, Irisvale, Umzingwane District.
The event, held under the theme “Empowering Farmers Through Improved Livestock Production Technologies,” brought together farmers, government officials, development partners, and community leaders to share knowledge and promote modern livestock production practices aimed at enhancing productivity and improving rural livelihoods.
Representing the Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Mrs. L.L. Dhlamini-Maseko, was Director Mr. R. Ncube, accompanied by Deputy Director Mr. T. Mudzviti and Mr. Muyambi.
A Model of Livestock Innovation
Participants were taken through the operations of the Mahlangu farm, which has become a model of diversified and innovative livestock production. The farm boasts over 300 Brahman cattle, dairy cattle produced through artificial insemination programmes using semen sourced from the Matopos Research Centre, and a growing poultry enterprise.
The host farmer has also embraced value-added livestock feeding systems through the production of silage and livestock lick blocks, with support from the Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ADRAS). The dairy herd, comprising Nguni-Jersey and Tuli-Jersey crosses, currently produces between 12 and 14 litres of milk per cow per day.
Call for Adoption of Modern Farming Technologies
In his welcome remarks, Deputy Minister of Defence, Brigadier General (Rtd) Levy Mayihlome, encouraged farmers to adopt innovative and economically sustainable farming practices that improve productivity and profitability. He commended Mr. Mahlangu for demonstrating that successful Brahman breeding can be undertaken by local farmers and urged participants to learn from such success stories.
Stakeholder Contributions
The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) urged farmers to adopt environmentally sustainable farming practices and establish fireguards in preparation for the anticipated veld fire season.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) highlighted the importance of combating stock theft through proper livestock branding, reporting criminal activities, and strengthening community policing structures such as Police Community Relations Committees (POLICOMs).
Representatives from Veterinary Services commended the excellent livestock management practices displayed by the host farmer and encouraged farmers to utilise veterinary officers for technical support in disease prevention and livestock health management.
ADRAS emphasized the importance of modern feeding technologies, particularly silage production, as a cost-effective strategy for reducing livestock production costs. Farmers were also encouraged to make use of services offered by the Matopos Research Centre, including access to quality breeding materials for dairy production.
Minister Nguluvhe Highlights Livestock Sector Potential
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Nguluvhe applauded Mr. and Mrs. Mahlangu for opening their farm to fellow farmers and creating a platform for learning and knowledge exchange.
The Minister underscored the critical role of livestock production in driving rural economic development, improving household incomes, enhancing food and nutrition security, creating employment opportunities, and contributing to national economic growth.
He challenged farmers to embrace improved feeding systems, including fodder production and silage making, while taking advantage of abundant biomass resources and government-supported mechanisation programmes.
Hon. Nguluvhe reiterated the importance of viewing agriculture as a business and encouraged communities, development partners, and investors to work together in building a productive, resilient, and prosperous livestock sector.
Quoting a popular local saying, the Minister remarked: “Ukulima libhizimusi njalo kuletha imphucuko kuzulu wonke jikelele,” emphasizing that agriculture is a business capable of transforming livelihoods and communities.
Community Development Concerns Raised
In her closing remarks, Chief Mabhena applauded the achievements of emerging black commercial farmers who have successfully ventured into Brahman cattle breeding. She encouraged community members to emulate the diversified farming practices demonstrated by the Mahlangu family.
The Chief also appealed for government intervention regarding land availability in Irisvale, highlighting challenges faced by youths who have limited access to land for expansion and economic activities.
Inspiring Future Growth
The Hlango Brahman Learning Day concluded with a strong call for farmers across Matabeleland South Province to embrace innovation, knowledge sharing, and modern livestock production technologies as pathways to improved livelihoods and sustainable rural development.
*Hon A.Nguluvhe*
*Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution*
*Matabeleland South Province*
*Beitbridge East Constituency