Rabbit, the new beef

A kilogramme of beef costs between $4 and $7 depending on the quality of the meat. A rabbit, however, costs between $2 and $5 depending on the breed.

One of the farmers earning a living from rabbit breeding is Tinashe Chakandinakira who runs a thriving venture in Kingsdale, along the Airport road.

”I started breeding rabbits last year. I breed Angoras, Flemish Giants and New Zealands, which I sell for between $2 and $5. Flemish Giants are the most sought after meat because they taste so good,” said the budding entrepreneur.

Chakandinakira said because of the increase in demand for rabbit meat, he applied for a bank loan which he used to increase his breeding stock to 250. He sells at least 20 rabbits a week.

”My biggest customers are individuals, hotels and shops. I sell both live and slaughtered rabbits. Some people buy the rabbits for domestication while others buy for business,” he said.

Chakandinakira also makes money selling rabbit fur, which is used to make hats and coats. The budding businessman has employed two people to help with the feeding of the rabbits. The workers also assist in the slaughtering and packaging of the meat.

Another rabbit breeder, Victor Ndlovu, said since the price of beef went up there had been an increase in demand for rabbit meat.

“Rabbit meat is white meat and it is good for you,” said Ndlovu.