57th National Breed Sale set to showcase industry resilience

The Zimbabwe Herd Book’s 57th National Breed Sale is set to take place on Friday 25 July. This much-anticipated annual fixture on our agricultural calendar will demonstrate the livestock sector's remarkable resilience.

The upcoming event takes place as Zimbabwe's livestock industry navigates its third consecutive year of severe drought in some regions, while other areas have experienced record-high rainfall. Despite these challenging conditions, pregnancy diagnosis rates across the country remain above average, according to industry feedback.

ZHB Chairman Anne Cooke paid tribute to breeders’ high quality of stockmanship demonstrated throughout the difficult period. "The above-average pregnancy diagnosis rates we're seeing across the country, despite these weather extremes, really highlight the exceptional management skills of our breeders," Cooke said ahead of the sale.

Under the leadership of Dr Mario Beffa, the ZHB team has continued to drive improvements in genetic evaluation systems. Several breeds have successfully transitioned to regional Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs), while others have accumulated substantial data sets that will enhance accuracy and provide buyers with greater confidence in genetic assessments.

The sale will feature bulls that have undergone rigorous inspection by industry experts John Crawford and Dirk Odendaal, who volunteer their time and expertise to evaluate the animals on offer. Their involvement ensures buyers can have confidence in the quality of livestock to be presented at the sale.

Despite ongoing economic pressures and disease challenges facing the cattle industry, organisers report a positive shift in farmer attitudes. There is growing recognition of the importance of environmental and genetic factors in livestock management, leading to more informed decision-making across the sector.

"We're seeing farmers develop a better understanding of how genetic selection and environmental management work together to improve their operations," noted Cooke. "This knowledge-based approach is strengthening the entire industry."

Livestock to be featured

The sale will showcase a diverse range of quality animals:

Cattle

66 bulls

5 Beefmaster

5 Boran

38 Brahman

2 Nkone

1 Simbra

2 Simmental

13 Tuli

73 heifers

6 Boran

54 Brahman

4 Simbra

9 Tuli

Sheep

6 Dorper rams

6 Dorper ewes

The ZHB has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting pedigree breeders in maintaining the highest standards of animal quality. The organisation continues to provide resources and expertise to ensure the industry's continued development.

The 57th National Breed Sale will represent not just a commercial opportunity, but a showcase of Zimbabwe's livestock industry's ability to adapt and thrive despite challenging circumstances. With strong participation expected from both sellers and buyers, the event is anticipated to reinforce market confidence in the country's breeding programs.

* The Herd Book and status of our stud industry remains firm and is currently represented by 223 breeders across 14 breeds (one sheep and 13 beef) with 24,738 registered animals.