Goat breeding masterclass for Bulawayo

04 Feb, 2025 - 11:02 0 Views
Goat breeding masterclass for Bulawayo Mrs Sifiso Agbetorwoka

Judith Phiri, Business Reporter

Diversified agriculture concern, Bulembe Farm is set to host a goat breeding masterclass in Bulawayo’s Manningdale suburb to empower farmers to tap into goat farming, which has the potential to contribute towards the overall economic growth in the country significantly.

The event set for March 01, 2025 comes at a time when the local and global demand for goat meat is on a continued upward trend.

Bulembe Farm owner, Mrs Sifiso Agbetorwoka, an avid goat breeder and Goat Breeders Association of Zimbabwe chairperson Mrs Sifiso Agbetorwoka is on record stating that goat breeding has a lucrative future and encouraging people to also consider venturing into the industry.

On the masterclass, she said: “The goat breeding masterclasses and boot camps allow farmers to experience the art of goat farming. It’s for those eager to embark on a rewarding journey into the world of goat breeding, or seeking to deepen their expertise in managing the kidding process.”

Mrs Agbetorwoka said their goat breeding masterclasses and boot camps offer a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and knowledge in the picturesque setting of their farm which is located in Fort Rixon, Matabeleland South Province.

She said the one-day goat breeding masterclass to be held in Bulawayo was an immersive one designed for beginners who are eager to learn the essentials of goat breeding.

“Farmers will be able to gain insights into best practices for care, breeding, and maintenance of a healthy goat farm. From understanding basic health needs to mastering daily routines, this class is tailored for anyone new to the world of farming and goat breeding.”

Mrs Agbetorwoka highlighted that goat breeding has the potential to significantly contribute towards the overall economic growth in the country.

According to Industry Trends and Forecast 2031, the Global Goat Meat market is anticipated to rise at a considerable rate between 2024 and 2031.

An increase in demand for goat meat therefore offers small-scale farmers in semi-arid Zimbabwe opportunities for increased market participation.

Meanwhile, with the current rainy season, she said farmers usually witnessed Orf disease, also known as sore mouth disease, a viral infection that causes sores on the skin of sheep and goats, as well as foot rot in livestock.

Mrs Agbetorwoka said: “Orf is a viral disease impacting sheep and goats. It manifests as warts, which are generally benign skin or mucosal growths caused by a papillomavirus. The virus spreads through skin and mucosal abrasions due to direct contact with infected animals, contaminated feed troughs, equipment, or kraals.”

On the steps for treatment, she said safety first was important, encouraging farmers to always wear gloves when handling animals with Orf to prevent transmission.

Mrs Agbetorwoka said the next step would be cleaning the area by carefully removing any dry scabs from the affected area, then cleansing it thoroughly using a solution of copper sulfate diluted in water.

She added: “Encourage bleeding, it is important to let the area bleed slightly. This allows the virus to enter the bloodstream, aiding the development of antibodies and building immunity in the animal. On infection prevention, apply Terramycin wound spray to the affected area daily. This helps prevent secondary infections and promotes healing.”

Mrs Agbetorwoka said by following these steps, farmers could effectively manage Orf and protect their livestock during the rainy season.

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