ZAMBIA – The Veterinary Association of Zambia (VAZ) announces plans to increase the country’s cattle population by approximately 2.7 million by 2026.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Zambian Business Times (ZBT), VAZ President Dr. Malcolm Chiyoba reveals that the current cattle population, based on the latest census, stands at around 4.8 to 5 million herds.
Dr. Chiyoba states that the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, in collaboration with VAZ, is targeting a cattle population of about 6.5 million by 2026.
He affirms, “By 2026, we should get to that figure.”
When questioned about targets for other livestock such as goats, sheep, and pigs, Dr. Chiyoba confirms that no specific targets have been set for these animals.
He clarifies, “The target of 6.5 million was announced by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, and as we work closely with them, we are aligned with this goal. However, for sheep and goats, we haven’t set a target yet.”
Dr. Chiyoba further explains that the focus is currently on increasing cattle numbers, and attention will subsequently turn to other livestock.
He suggests contacting the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock for more information on targets for other animals.
This initiative is seen as a positive development for Zambia’s cattle industry; late last year, stakeholders from the livestock and climate change sectors gathered to discuss climate actions in livestock systems during a national workshop organized by the FAO in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock.
The workshop aimed to enhance understanding of the livestock sector’s impact on climate change and to raise awareness among policymakers.
During the workshop, participants examined the importance of institutional arrangements, policies, and data analysis for the livestock sector.
They also discussed strategies for mitigating and adapting to the challenges posed by climate change in Zambia.
Douty Chibamba, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, emphasized the need for seamless collaboration across sectors to effectively implement the nationally determined contribution (NDC) framework.
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