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by Regina Pasipanodya

Farmers are urged to de-stock as dry spells continues in many parts of the country a local official has revealed.

In a statement to the Herald DVS Director Dr Josphat Nyika urged farmers to consider de-stocking.

“Farmers are encouraged to de-stock, for instance, sell older animals and save younger and productive ones,” he said.

Zimbabwe Farmers Union (ZFU) president Mr Abdul Nyathi said large numbers of cattle were succumbing to drought and the situation had been worsened by the drying up of dams.

“Cattle are now dying due to lack of water and pastures. The dams are drying up where there is little baled grass. The hay bales are being sold at between $80 and $100 per 15kg bale, which is beyond the reach of many.

“The most affected areas are Masvingo, Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North, south of Midlands, Muzarabani and south of Manicaland.