Specialist farmers at the Africa Women University Exhibition Stand said if adopted, the cross breed practice would boost both milk and beef production for domestic and export purposes.
“A farmer could cross breed the Holstein/Friesland dairy bull with any of the local types. The resultant calf would be capable of producing at least 10 000 litres of milk every 300 days in a year. Cattle start bearing calves at two years old; this would improve the welfare of the farmer as he would access huge quantities of milk for both commercial and family consumption purposes. The cross breed would also produce better meat,” said a specialist at the stand.
He said new farmers should be empowered and encouraged to adopt the practice as it would enable them to breed cattle resistant to drought and diseases.
Most farmers will find it financially challenging to adopt the suggested measures given the high cost of purchasing a dairy bull. A bull weighing 500 kg would cost between $500 and $800.
The cattle experts urged interested farmers to consult them for more technical knowledge. The University is situated three kilometres out of Marondera along the Wenimbe Dam Road.
Post published in: News
its better…..this is good quality bt improve the mating system so that we may have heterosis