BY JUSTMAN KUTYA IN MASVINGO.
In a united effort to enhance the safety and security of their livestock, communal farmers in Gutu have taken it upon themselves to ensure the branding of their cattle. This initiative, aimed at deterring stock theft as well as aggravating easy identification of their cattle, has garnered support from local villagers and outsiders who have taken a leaf out of it and embraced the practice.
Mary Moyo, a veteran peasant farmer in the area, expressed her gratitude for the community’s initiative, saying, “Branding our animals will not only provide us with peace of mind but also serves as a therapy against stock theft.”
John Chikwakwa, another villager, weighed in, “I am a proud beneficiary of this branding project. It gives us guarantee that our animals can be easily identified and traced back to us.”
Sarah Manyika, an upcoming farmer, highlighted the importance of community support in implementing the branding initiative. “By working together and encouraging each other to brand our livestock, we are creating a safer environment for one another as farmers,” she remarked.
The collaboration among villagers dovetails with the Zimbabwe Republic Police campaign against stock theft which was launched in the same district sometime last month. National Police Spokesperson, Paul Nyati, was the guest of Honor.