Livestock is vital to the economy and people of Zimbabwe. The livestock industry contributes 15 – 25% of the total value of the agricultural output from all farming sub-sectors. All the sub sectors play an important role in economic development and poverty alleviation. However small stock has more impact in poverty alleviation hence SNV Zimbabwe’s focus on goats. The goat sub-sector is a critical source of cash income and investment for small-scale farmers, particularly in drought-prone areas of Zimbabwe.
SNV facilitates the adoption of auction and business linkage models aimed at increasing production, off take and profits and while ensuring sustainability. SNV also assists in the development of appropriate and relevant financial services and products for the different value chain actors as well as promoting investments in the chain (water points, pharmaceutics, dip tanks, stock feeds and improved sales pens.
SNV works with the Department of Livestock Production and Development, ORAP, SHDF, Producer Associations, MDTC and Local Authorities as well as with the private sector players/buyers like abattoirs, butchers transporters and retailers, and financing institutions like Agribank, Kingdom Bank and smaller MFIs. Partnerships include Matobo Research Station (LCB), Center for Agriculture and Rural Development (LCB), ICRISAT, Makoholi Research station, FAO and Practical Action.