Rains provide relief for cattle, but . . .

Precious Manomano-Herald Reporter

EVEN with better pastures and water availability from recent rains, weaker cattle are still dying as a result of the El-Niño-induced drought of the previous season with 283 in the last week, the majority in Matabeleland North, 

Recent rains have provided some relief for the remaining livestock, but pasture and water supplies remain critical in some areas

Official data from the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development indicates that over 13 000 cattle were lost last year due to drought-related causes.

Matabeleland North experienced the highest losses, with 195 cattle dying last week alone and 3 398 over the whole year.

Matabeleland South had 6 988 deaths, Midlands 766, and Masvingo 1 929 with smaller losses in Mashonaland Central 55 and Mashonaland West 51, while Manicaland and Mashonaland East reported no cases.

The drought critically impacted grazing and water supply, leading to continued deaths from malnutrition and environmental hazards.

In addition to these challenges, some cattle have become trapped in dried-up dams, and the chilling effects of the first rainfall of the present season have added further stress.

In his weekly report, Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (ARDAS) chief director Mr Leonard Munamati, said: “Efforts are underway to increase water availability for livestock in order to mitigate the effects of El Niño drought experienced in the 2023-2024 season. 

“Rangelands are starting to replenish in some areas which have received rainfall, whilst some areas have not yet received significant rains.”

Director of Veterinary Services, Dr Jairus Machakwa, emphasised the increased risk of tick infestations, lice and internal parasites that can lead to livestock diseases.

“To reduce tick-borne diseases, farmers should adhere strictly to dipping procedures recommended by local veterinary personnel,” he said.

Compliance with dipping schedules and animal movement restrictions is essential to curbing the spread of tick-borne diseases.

Presently, the department is producing three of the four necessary vaccines to combat tick-borne diseases, specifically for theileriosis, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis. The exception is the vaccine for heartwater.

In addition, they are also manufacturing a vaccine for Newcastle disease, a highly contagious and fatal viral infection affecting poultry.

Said Dr Machakwa: “We have plans to scale up our vaccine production capabilities and expand the scope to include vaccines for other significant livestock diseases, such as anthrax and blackleg. 

“This will enhance our ability to control and prevent a wider range of diseases, ultimately improving the health and productivity of both livestock and poultry across the country.”

Farmers are also encouraged to vaccinate against other infectious diseases such as lumpy skin disease, anthrax, blackleg, and Newcastle disease for poultry.

During the dry season, livestock may have picked up internal parasites like tapeworms, which can proliferate when animals are undernourished.

“Deworming is essential for ensuring optimal performance during the summer months. For sheep and goats, ensure that vaccinations against pulpy kidney disease are given at least two weeks before deworming to avoid fatalities,” he said.

The wet season brings an increased risk of diseases such as mastitis, coccidiosis, and foot rot, as wet and muddy conditions provide ideal environments for bacteria and fungi.

To prevent these conditions, farmers should ensure livestock have access to clean and dry resting areas.

“Rotating kraals, changing wet bedding frequently for poultry, and maintaining strict hygiene on dairy farms can significantly reduce the risk of these infections,” he said.

Wet conditions can lead to low temperatures and extreme weather, which are particularly harmful to young animals such as calves, kids, lambs, and chicks, as well as those that are sick or weak. It is crucial to provide shelter to protect these animals from rain, wind, and cold, which can lead to pneumonia. 

Farmers are urged to provide dry bedding for goats, sheep, and calves, especially during colder weather.

By closely monitoring livestock health and implementing proper management strategies, farmers can mitigate the risks posed by diseases during the rainy season and ensure a healthy, productive livestock population.