Zimbabwe’s livestock industry is making significant strides, with the country’s registered stud livestock population now surpassing 24,000 animals, representing 17 breeds under the care of 220 breeders.
This milestone was celebrated at the 57th National Breed Sale, where top genetics stole the show, fetching impressive prices and highlighting growing confidence in the sector.
The high-value sale saw a Brahman bull bred by Pilossof Ruvale Brahmans and Beefmasters of Bulawayo fetch an eye-popping US$40,000, topping the sale which featured 140 elite animals.
In the small stock section, a Dorper sheep drew widespread attention, going for US$4,300, the highest price recorded in the category.
“This was not just a sale, it was a showcase of Zimbabwe’s breeding excellence,” said Dr. Mario Beffa, general manager of the Zimbabwe Herd Book (ZHB), which organized the event.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture Davis Marapira officially opened the event, noting that the record-breaking sales demonstrate the sector’s resilience and potential to anchor national herd recovery.
“Even in the face of recurring diseases and stock theft, today’s record-breaking sales show the sector’s resilience and its potential to anchor national herd recovery,” said Marapira.
The sale, themed “Battle of the Breeds,” underscored the strategic role of improved genetics in achieving national targets under the Livestock Growth and Recovery Plan, which aims to build a robust, productive, and climate-resilient livestock sector by 2030.
With top breeds on display, including Brahman, Boran, Simbra, Nkone, Simmental, Tuli, Beefmaster, and Dorper, the event showcased the best of Zimbabwe’s livestock industry.
