BULAWAYO - A foot and mouth disease outbreak has affected this years Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) animal and produce section, the events chairman said.
ZITF chairman Bekithemba Nkomo said although enthusiasm from farmers was high, the outbreak meant only herds from the Matopos Research Centre and Khami Prison would be on display. Preparations for both the animal and produce sections are going on very well and enthusiasm from the farmers is high. However, due to the serious nature of the current foot and mouth disease situation, the Veterinary Department has restricted the exhibition of pedigree cattle.
Only herds from the Matopos Research Station and Khami Prison have been fully inoculated and can be brought in as static display, he said. Nkomo said sheep and goats had also been affected but, despite the setback, the slaughter section is now fully subscribed.
There will also be a very good produce section drawn from farmers from all over Matabeleland region, he said. Authorities in Zimbabwe two weeks ago banned cattle and beef imports from South Africa because of a disease outbreak. Livestock and Veterinary Services director William Shereni said the ban was a precaution and effective immediately. 29 direct exhibitors from 14 countries have confirmed their participation.
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