The Officer Commanding Masvingo Province, Senior Assistant Commissioner Martha Mofolo has bemoaned the slow pace by which farmers in Masvingo Province were embracing the cattle branding initiative which she said was greatly contributing to the loss and reduction of the national herd.

The senior officer made the remarks whilst addressing scores of people who recently gathered at Tagarika Business centre, in Mwenezi, to witness the cattle branding re-invigoration.

SAC Mofolo revealed that the province was holding about 500 stray cattle and it was proving very difficult for owners to positively identify their livestock as they did not have any brand marks.

“It is worrisome that the national head continues to dwindle as our farmers in Masvingo are failing to embrace some initiatives designed to save, protect and increase their livestock. Cattle are a symbol of wealth but it pains me to just look and see the owners of wealth losing it to undeserving members of the community, “she said.

She further revealed that Masvingo Province has the largest herd of cattle in the country and as such the province should jealously guard it.

“It should not be over emphasized that the country is proud of our province for having the largest herd in the country. Let us all play our part to preserve our wealth through various initiatives such as cattle branding.

“Let’s form a strong force against cattle rustling or any livestock related crimes by coming up with committees from the grassroots such as Village Anti-Stock Theft Committee that will incorporate all key stakeholders such as traditional leaders,farmers,Veterinary Services, Registrar General’s Offices  and police among others, “said SAC Mofolo.

The senior officer said it was also a Southern African Development Committe (SADC) requirement that farmers brand their cattle to prevent cross border stock theft.

“Branding of cattle is not only done here in Zimbabwe but in the whole SADC region because cross- border theft of livestock is also a serious problem that we should solve collectively, “SAC Mofolo said.

Speaking at the same occasion, Chief Chitanga, Feleni Chauke said a strong force would be formed to deal decisively with cattle rustling in the area.

“People in Mwenezi should take heed of the message from police and work with all stakeholders in our area. When we work together we would reduce stock theft cases, “said Chief Chitanga.