Zimbabwe Herd Book announces exciting small stock addition to upcoming Beef School

From September 16-18, the Zimbabwe Herd Book (ZHB) will host its annual Beef School in Bulawayo. The choice of Bulawayo as the venue reflects the city's central role in Zimbabwe's agricultural sector.

This year marks the 13th iteration of Beef School and this year's programme is under the theme "iSmart" - representing Impactful, Insightful, Scientific, Modern, Adaptive, Regenerative, and Technology-driven approaches to beef production.

The three-day intensive programme promises to deliver cutting-edge knowledge in modern beef production techniques. The curriculum emphasises the integration of technology and scientific approaches to create more adaptive and regenerative farming practices.

Speaking ahead of the event, ZHB Chair, Anne Cooke, commented: “This year's theme challenges us as farmers to reflect on how we can extract the best value from our livestock enterprises. It reminds us of the importance of embracing change, adopting appropriate modern technologies, and equally sticking to the basics while remaining cost-conscious in a challenging economic environment.”

Inaugural small stock school

In an exciting new development, ZHB will launch its inaugural Small Stock School on Thursday, September 18, from 2-5pm. This afternoon session, strategically scheduled for the final day of Beef School 2025, represents ZHB's expansion into comprehensive livestock education beyond cattle farming.

"We are especially proud to be launching our inaugural Small Stock School. This exciting new initiative is designed for sheep, goat, and other small stock producers, and we warmly welcome both established and aspiring farmers to take advantage of this learning platform," said Cooke.

The Small Stock School will focus on goat and sheep management, addressing the importance of these animals in Zimbabwe's agricultural landscape. It aims to provide practical knowledge for farmers looking to diversify their livestock operations.

Looking forward

Anyone who has been to Beef School knows this programme is exceptional value for money, with world class speakers brought in to cover topics relevant to beef production in Zimbabwe. Many familiar faces from within the sector who attend year after year are testament to the value of Beef School's education and that there is always something new to be learnt. The event also offers excellent networking opportunities for everyone to get together and "chew the fat" during tea, lunch and dinner breaks.

According to Dr Mario Beffa, ZHB manager, the ZHB Annual Beef School is not just an enriching educational event; it is an opportunity for cattle producers to network, share experiences, and advance their knowledge. With a curriculum that addresses the pressing needs of the industry, attendees will walk away equipped with the tools to enhance their cattle operations and contribute to the growth of Zimbabwe's beef industry.

The programme will feature a wide range of local, regional and international presentations, including two online presentations from Australia. Topics will range from fertility, veld management, nutrition, animal health, genetics, economics, artificial intelligence in agriculture, and technologies for remote farm management.

A highlight of this year's programme will be Prof Esté van Marle-Köster's presentation on crossbreeding, which ties in perfectly with the showcase of the Simbra breed - one of this year's featured genetics.

These initiatives demonstrate ZHB's commitment to advancing Zimbabwe's livestock industry through education and technology adoption. The "iSmart" theme for 2025 particularly emphasises the organisation's focus on modernising traditional farming practices while maintaining sustainable and regenerative approaches.

The combination of the established Beef School with the new Small Stock School represents a comprehensive approach to livestock education, addressing the diverse needs of Zimbabwe's farming community. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, these educational platforms provide crucial knowledge transfer opportunities for both experienced and emerging farmers.

The Year of the Simmental and Simbra

Every year the ZHB selects a cattle breed to be showcased and this year, it's the turn of the Simmental and Simbra. These sister breeds are renowned for their fertility and carcass attributes in Zimbabwe's diverse climatic conditions. Cattle from both breeds will be on display during the course of the event and their attributes will be discussed in a dedicated session by leading breeders. Cooke encourages attendees to visit the animals on display, engage with breeders, and discover how these genetics can enhance beef production in Zimbabwe.

Industry support and sponsorship

Dr Beffa also gave thanks to the event sponsors for their unwavering support and commitment to advancing the cattle industry in Zimbabwe. According to Dr Beffa, these sponsors play an essential role in fostering innovation and sharing knowledge among producers. "Together, we are building a stronger, more sustainable beef sector that benefits not only livestock farmers but also contributes significantly to our nation's economy."

Many of these partners have stood with ZHB for years, and all participants are encouraged to visit their exhibition stands and explore the solutions they provide to strengthen enterprises.

Both events have attracted significant support from major players in Zimbabwe's agricultural sector, including National Foods Stockfeeds, Red Dane Agri Solutions, Trouw Nutrition, FeedMix, Chemplex Agro Pharma, Hyperfeeds Animal Nutrition, Front-Line Farming, Capital Foods, Nashcon, Coopers Animal Health, Chems Africa, Veterinary Distributors, CBC and Shumba Group.

Building Zimbabwe's livestock future

"As we embark on another year of learning, networking, and sharing, I hope that Beef School 2025 and the inaugural Small Stock School will provide not only food for thought but also actionable ideas that you can implement back home on your farms," concluded Chair Cooke.

"Together, let us continue building a resilient and productive livestock sector for Zimbabwe."

For more information on attending or exhibiting, contact ZHB directly on: • Phone: 0242-756 600 / 774 391 / 772 915 • WhatsApp: +263 774 122 660 • Email: trace@lit.co.zw