Over 400 000 Livestock Vaccinated Nationwide

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

Over 400 000 livestock have been vaccinated across the country under a government-led initiative aimed at combating deadly diseases prevalent during the rainy season.

The campaign, part of the Livestock Recovery and Growth Plan (2020-2025), targets diseases such as anthrax, blackleg, and lumpy skin, which account for up to 40 percent of annual livestock deaths.

Dr. Pious Makaya, Chief Director of the Directorate of Veterinary Services, stated in an interview with Zim Now that the program is progressing well, with 95 percent (419,017) of the targeted 440,000 livestock already vaccinated.

“The vaccination campaign is advancing steadily, and we encourage farmers to continue adhering to vaccination and deworming schedules as advised by veterinary officers,” Dr. Makaya said.

Farmers have been urged to vaccinate cattle against anthrax, blackleg, and lumpy skin disease, while small ruminants such as sheep and goats should receive the pulpy kidney vaccine, followed by deworming two weeks later.

Dr. Makaya also highlighted the importance of weekly dipping to prevent tick-borne diseases, which can devastate herds if left unchecked. “If you suspect your cattle have a tick-borne disease, consult veterinary officers for proper laboratory tests before administering any vaccines,” he advised.

Vaccines for January Disease, Gall Sickness, and Red Water are available but should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

In 2019, over 50,000 cattle succumbed to preventable diseases, underscoring the critical need for proactive vaccination efforts. The Livestock Recovery and Growth Plan aims to increase the national herd to eight million by 2025.

This vaccination initiative is part of a broader strategy to protect farmers’ livelihoods by ensuring the health and productivity of their animals during the high-risk rainy season.