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Fall armyworm continues to ravage crops in Zimbabwe
Fall armyworm (FAW) is an insect pest (Spodoptera frugiperda) that is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. It was first detected in Africa in 2016 (reported in Zimbabwe in September of that year) and has since spread to many African countries. It is thought to have reached Africa through imported produce or…
The importance of stud livestock, pedigrees and records for the livestock sector
The Zimbabwe Herd Book (ZHB) is an important registry system that maintains detailed records of pedigree livestock breeds in Zimbabwe. It serves as the official database documenting the lineage, performance records, and genetic history of registered cattle, sheep and goats, ensuring the integrity and traceability of superior breeding stock. Why is the Zimbabwe Herd Book…
ZTA and HDC raise alarm over RBZ’s forex retention cut
Both the Zimbabwe Tobacco Association (ZTA) and the Horticultural Development Council (HDC) have issued strong statements in reaction to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s recent directive to reduce foreign currency retention for exporters from 75% to 70%. Both organisations warn of far-reaching consequences for the country’s agricultural export industries. Tobacco sector faces critical timing challenge…
Kutsaga celebrates 75 years
For 75 years, the Kutsaga Research Board has stood as a cornerstone of tobacco research in Zimbabwe, distinguished by its robust collaborative framework with industry stakeholders. From its earliest days, the institution recognised that meaningful agricultural advancement requires strong partnerships between researchers, merchants, and farmers. The institution will be holding a series of events throughout the year to commemorate…
ADMA expands 2025 indigenous livestock sale
The Agricultural Dealers and Manufacturers Association in conjunction with Zimbabwe National Indigenous Breeders Society, are set to host the second indigenous livestock breeds sale. The sale is set to broaden its scope in 2025, marking a significant expansion from its initial format. Following the success of its inaugural event, ADMA has expanded the sale’s livestock…
Zimbabwe 2024 wheat production
Zimbabwe’s wheat production in 2024 was marked by both challenges and strategic developments. The nation achieved a yield of 555,824 metric tonnes, reaching 92% of its 600,000-tonne target by cultivating approximately 119,594 hectares. In 2023, Zimbabwe produced 468,000 metric tonnes of wheat from 90,186 hectares planted, exceeding its self-sufficiency goal by 30%. The average yield ranged from 5.1…
A snapshot of Zimbabwe’s rain and the ITCZ
The Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is currently bringing significant climatic influences to Zimbabwe, with scattered thunderstorms and heavy rainfall affecting Manicaland and Mashonaland provinces. Parallel to these atmospheric conditions, Zimbabwe is closely monitoring Kariba Lake, a vital resource for hydroelectricity. The lake level is steadily increasing as the rainy season progresses. Though lower than last…
Our rabbit industry growing in leaps and bounds
Rabbit farming in Zimbabwe has been a niche industry for several years, with limited, informal production and markets. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable upswing in the development of a more formalised, commercialised and structured industry for rabbit production and marketing. Under the auspices of the Livestock Meat and Advisory Council (LMAC)…
Green manure crops
Article shared with permission from Rob Stokes of ROC Systems. Green manure crops are similar to cover crops except they are incorporated into the soil. They are hugely beneficial to your soil, however, the ploughing process causes losses of soil carbon and organic matter. One incredible fact to note is that if you plant multi-species,…
Care of Your Stud Bull
By Dr Doug Bruce, BVSc (Pretoria), Veterinary Surgeon. Your stud bull is an expensive and critical investment. His failure can be likened to crop failure. Pay attention to his needs and ensure he is fertile. Genetics Your stud bull determines the genetic direction and improvement of your cow herd. It is therefore important that you…